STI Engineering 9256TRX Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum Transceiver User Manual

STI Engineering Pty Ltd Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum Transceiver

Contents

User manual

RF INNOVATIONS PTY LTDRFI-9256OPERATIONMANUAL
RFI-9256 Operation Manual RF Innovations Pty Ltd22 Boulder Road Malaga, Western AustraliaPhone +61 8 9209 0900 • Fax +61 8 9248 2833RF Innovations Pty Ltd reserves the right to change manual content, product specifications without prior notice to the product owner, althoughall efforts will made to do so. RF Innovations Pty Ltd will not be held liable for any damages that may be caused by incorrect informationdisplayed in this manual.This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject tothe following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmfulinterference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,including interference that may cause undesired operation.Caution: Changes or modifications to this product not expressly approvedby RF Innovations could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Table of ContentsTABLE OF CONTENTS..............................................................21 INTRODUCTION ..............................................................52 RS-232 RADIO MODEMS...............................................6The RS-232 Standard....................................................................6DTE versus DCE Conventions .....................................................73 INSTALLATION................................................................8Setting up for a connection...........................................................8Point to Multipoint Connection ...................................................9Point to Point Communication.....................................................9RFI-9256 Location.......................................................................10Using an External Antenna.........................................................104 CONFIGURATION ........................................................ 115 USING FRONT PANEL MODES................................ 12Mode 1..........................................................................................12Mode 2..........................................................................................13Mode 3..........................................................................................14Mode 4..........................................................................................14Mode 5..........................................................................................15Mode 6 (config) ............................................................................156 USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS.................. 16Accessing the Configuration Menu............................................16METHOD 1: Front Panel Mode 6 (config) ..............................16METHOD 2: Local Hayes Command ......................................16METHOD 3: Remote Menu.....................................................16(R) Radio Configuration Menu ..................................................17(1) Special Controls Menu.........................................................20(2) Link Control Menu...............................................................20(3) Set Radio Characteristics .....................................................22(P) Tx Power Menu...............................................................23(F) Frame Time Menu...........................................................24(B) Directional Bias Menu.....................................................24(L) Protocol Port Selection (Link/Port Protocol Menu)...........25(P) Protocol Selection Menu......................................................26Protocol Configuration Menu....................................................27(L) Link Control Menu..........................................................28Protocol Configuration Menus...................................................28Route Managing.....................................................................28Protocol Decoding/Routing................................................29Route Types .......................................................................29(R) Route Manager Menu......................................................31(M) Hayes Command Control Menu.....................................32(A) Advanced Functions Menu..............................................34(S) Serial Port Configuration Menu...........................................36(B) Baud Rate Menu..................................................................37(F) Flow Control Menu..............................................................38(A) Advanced Functions Menu..................................................38(M) Modem and I/O Configuration Menu.................................38(H) Hayes Command Control Menu (Port Selection Menu)..39(D) DCD Control Menu.............................................................39(R) RTS Control Menu..............................................................41(A) Auxiliary I/O Port................................................................42(D) Aux I/O Direction Menu.................................................43(P) Powerup defaults Menu....................................................43(P) Radio Personality Menu........................................................44(D) Diagnostics Menu..................................................................45(F) Fault log menu......................................................................49(L) Set Logging Level............................................................49(1) Statistics Menu.....................................................................497 THE HAYESTM COMPATIBLE AT COMMAND SET51The AT Commands......................................................................51The Attention Code......................................................................51Multiple Commands ....................................................................51Port Selection Modifier................................................................52The Escape Sequence...................................................................52Response Codes............................................................................53Dialing...........................................................................................54Hanging Up...................................................................................54Configuring the Modem..............................................................55Viewing the Current Configuration...........................................55Modem Commands ......................................................................56AT? Menu Mode........................................................................56ATD Dial....................................................................................56ATE Echo...................................................................................56ATH Hang Up............................................................................56ATI Information.........................................................................57ATO Return to On-Line State....................................................57ATQ Quiet (Suppress Response Codes)....................................57
ATV Verbal Response Codes....................................................58ATW Delayed Response............................................................58AT&C Controlling Data Carrier Detect.....................................58AT&D Controlling Data Terminal Ready.................................59AT&F Restore Factory Defaults................................................59AT&G Exclusive Port Control ..................................................59AT&K Flow Control..................................................................60AT&V View Active Profile.......................................................60AT&W Store Active Profile ......................................................60‘S’ Register Commands...............................................................61ATS0 Rings Before Answer......................................................61ATS2 Escape Character.............................................................61ATS7 Wait for Carrier ...............................................................61ATS12 Escape Sequence Guard Time.......................................62ATS21 Set Security Code..........................................................62ATS30 Inactivity Time out........................................................62ATS40 Packet Timer.................................................................62ATS41 Number of retries for ARQ...........................................63ATS42 Network fail timeout.....................................................63ATS43 Online requests timer ....................................................63ATS44 Hopping Pattern Sequence............................................63ATS45 Max TX Power..............................................................63ATS47 Frame Time...................................................................63ATS48 Frame Bias....................................................................64ATS50 Network Address...........................................................64ATS51 Unit Rx address.............................................................64ATS52 Unit Tx address .............................................................64ATS60 Set Logging Level.........................................................64ATS61 Set UNIX Date/Time.....................................................65ATS62 Set System/Log Timer...................................................65ATS70 Set Port Protocol Type ..................................................65ATS80 Get Local Auxiliary I/O Hex data.................................65ATS81 Get Remote Auxiliary I/O Hex data..............................65ATS82 Get Auxiliary I/O Direction Mask ................................65ATS83 Set Auxiliary I/O Power-up Default .............................66ATS84 Set Auxiliary I/O Sample Timer ...................................66ATS90 Set DCD control...........................................................66ATS91 Set RTS control.............................................................67ATS100 Set Port baud rate ........................................................67ATS101 Set Port parity..............................................................67ATS102 Set Port data bits..........................................................67ATS103 Set Port stop bits..........................................................68ATS104 Set Port flow control...................................................68‘%’ Register Commands.............................................................68AT%20 Set Unit Name..............................................................69AT%22 Set Menu Password......................................................69AT%62 Set RTC Date/Time......................................................69Other Commands ........................................................................698 DIALUP NETWORKING.............................................. 73Extension Numbers......................................................................73Repeaters......................................................................................749 ESTABLISHING COMMUNICATION LINKS........... 76Point to Point .............................................................................76Point to Multipoint Dial connection ..........................................76Point to Point Repeater ..............................................................77Point to Multipoint (+Repeater).................................................7810 AUXILIARY INPUT/OUTPUT PORT ......................... 79A FIRMWARE COMPATIBILITY ....................................80The version numbe ring sche me..................................................80Compatibility Types ....................................................................80Hardware compatibility..............................................................80Air interface compatibility (AI) .................................................81Feature Compatibility (F)...........................................................81Version Inter-Compatibility Guide............................................81B DIAGRAMS.....................................................................82C TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS.................................85Radio Specifications.....................................................................85Pin Assignments ...........................................................................86Power supply Notes .....................................................................86EIA Standard RS-232-C Pin Assignments ................................87D FACTORY DEFAULTS ................................................88Radio Configuration....................................................................88Protocol Port Selection................................................................88Serial Port Configuration Menu (settings are the same for bothports) .............................................................................................88Modem and I/O Configuration Menu........................................89Radio Personality Menu..............................................................89Diagnostics Menu.........................................................................89E TROUBLE SHOOTING.................................................90F GLOSSARY....................................................................93
INTRODUCTION©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 5223889, Revision 2.21 IntroductionRFI-9256 Data Strike 3 Spread Spectrum Radio Modemhe RFI-9256 Data Strike Series3 Spread Spectrum Radio Modem Transceiver will open up new lines ofunparalleled high speed reliable data communications in hostile environments.A Spread Spectrum Radio Modem has a wide band of frequencies allocated to it. The transceiver uses apseudo-random code to hop throughout this frequency band sending packets of data at differentfrequencies. The receiver uses the same hopping code to synchronize and receive the data. This pseudo-random code allows many radio devices to share frequencies and operate on independent networks on thesame frequency bands with negligible interference.The RFI-9256 is essentially a full duplex radio modem capable of emulating a standard telephonemodem. The units can be configured for several types of standard link formats, including point to point(Direct) where modems continually transmit to one another and point to multipoint dialup connectionswhere one unit can talk to many units by the use of a dialing mechanism to address the units. There is also aprotocol router mode, which can map protocol addresses to radios and forward the data to the correct unit.The radio modems come from the factory configured as point to multipoint dialup.The modem unit can be connected to a PC, laptop or any RS-232 device (e.g. terminals), to display theinbuilt configuration menus or to directly control the operation of the modem via the inbuilt protocols.One special feature of the modem is the two RS-232 ports provided (Main and Auxiliary). This allows theuser to monitor the operation of the radio whilst it is in communication with other units. Protocols on eachport are mostly independent of each other hence you can have two different protocols runningsimultaneously.Figure 1-1 shows a possible configuration for a pair of RFI-9256 units. The local modem is generallyconfigured as the Master and the remote/distant modem(s) as the Slave(s). It is the Master modemsresponsibility to synchronise communication with other Slave modems, meaning a Master can initiatecommunication with a Slave (and visa versa), but two Slaves or two Masters cannot communicate with eachother as communication will not be synchronised.The RFI-9256 provides two methods ofconfiguration. There is a Menu Systemand/or a set of HayesTM compatible ATCommands available through either theAuxiliary or the Main port. The menusystem provides a user-friendly interface withprompts and the AT command set enablesthe user to automate the operation of themodem, by using scripts, and to dial remoteunits.TFigure 1-1 Configuration Example for the RFI-9256
RS-232 RADIO MODEMS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 6223889, Revision 2.22 RS-232 Radio Modemsommunication systems cannot directly transport digital data without distortion affecting the signal. Adevice is required to ‘transform’ the digital signal into one that can be transported without distortion. Aradio modem is a device used to convert serial digital data into a form that can be transmitted by RadioFrequency (RF). This is exactly like the landline modem except that it transmits its data down your phoneline instead. The receiving modem ‘transforms’ the signal back into serial data. This is summarised in Figure2-1.Data istransferred inblocksor‘chunks’. The communicating modems must be synchronised so that they both recognise the beginning and end ofthe data blocks. Data transmitted in the RF path is typically sent in large blocks or packets, where many databits represent a packet. The data on the Terminal or DTE/DCE end by comparison is sent asynchronouswhere start and stop bits are included in every block of 8 data bits. This decreases the amount of useful datainside each blockIf data is transferred in one direction at one time only, it is known as Simplex Communication. If data istransferred in both directions at the same time, it is known as Duplex Communication and is divided intotwo systems, Half and Full. In Half Duplex Communication, data can only flow in one direction at a giventime and in Full Duplex Communication data flows in both directions simultaneously. This is illustrated inFigure 2-2.TheRS-232StandardRS-232is astandard that defines the characteristics of point-to-point communication. It is suitable for transferringCFigure 2-1 Modem Function in Data TransferFigure 2-2 Simplex/Duplex Modes
RS-232 RADIO MODEMS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 7223889, Revision 2.2serial, binary and digital data. Communication is generally asynchronous and full duplex. Reliablecommunication can be achieved up to 50 feet. The RS-232 transmitter sends logic 1 as -5 to -25 Volts andlogic 0 as +5 to +25 Volts. The hardware handshaking lines are used for interactive device control. Thelines used for handshaking are RTS (Ready to Send), CTS (Clear to Send), DTR (Data Terminal Ready) andDCD (Data Carry Detect).DTE versus DCE ConventionsThis is one of the most misunderstood areas of RS-232. DTE stands for Data Terminal Equipment,and DCE stands for Data Communications Equipment. DTE is typically either a dumb terminal or theserial port on a computer/workstation. DCE is typically a modem or other piece of data communicationsequipment. Where it gets confusing is when you start to talk about signal definitions and direction. Forexample, it's easy for someone to understand that when you transmit data, you send it out. However, whenyou talk in terms of the DCE, it becomes an input. This is because the specification was written from theperspective of the DTE end of the link. Another example is that the Receive Data signal is an input toDTE, but an output from DCE. Refer to Figure 2-3 for a visual understanding. Radio modems can performthe function of both DTE and DCEFigure 2-3 DTE and DCE Conventions for RFI-9256
INSTALLATION©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 8223889, Revision 2.23 Installationasic steps can achieve a connection straight away but, if you require a more comprehensive setupthen the information in the main data manual should be read. However, it is recommended thatyou set up a simple connection to gain familiarization with the units and their internal menu system.Setting up for a connectionThe following steps should be followed for setting up communication between a pair of wireless datatransceivers received from the factory with factory default settings:Connect the Main Ports of each radio modem to a serial port of a computer or device, using a suitablecable1.Run a suitable terminal package2 or emulator (on the computer) using the following settings:Communications Settings (RS-232 Com Port)Baud Rate: 19200Data Bits: 8Parity: NoneStop Bits: 1Flow Control: No FlowTerminal SettingsEmulator Mode: None or Standard TTYLocal Echo: offLF to CR on incoming: offLF to CR on outgoing: offFasten the correct type of antennas, as required, to the modems ensuring they are properly seated.Make one of the modems a Master (by default they are Slave) and set its Rx address (modem’snumber) by doing the following:Connect the Local modem’s Auxiliary Port to a COM port of a terminal.Hold Mode Select Button on the front panel of the unit to select Mode 6 – config.This will bring up the Configuration Menu on the terminal.Press ‘R’ to select the “Radio Configuration Menu”.Press ‘M’ to set the unit to a Master.Press ‘L’ to set the Local Rx Address (modem’s number)Press ‘Esc’ (escape) twice.Press ‘Y’ to exit the Menu.At this point a Network Link will be established, and the Slave modem will have the NETWORK LINKand CARRIER DETECT LEDs activated and the POWER LED Flashing. The Master will only have a FlashingPOWER LED. 1 using an RFI pre-made cable [optional] or by a user constructed cable in accordance to the pin configuration in Technical Specifications2 If you don’t have a terminal program that can be set to 19200 baud, you can download our shareware terminal program (RFI’s InTerm) from the RFInnovations Web site (http://www.rfinnovations.com.au/).B
INSTALLATION©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 9223889, Revision 2.2Now configure the Device for a Radio Connection.Point to Multipoint ConnectionIn Point-to-Multipoint communication, the master dials a slave or visa versa. Communication is thenestablished between these two modems and is controlled by HayesTM AT command set. This Mode is usedwhen the master is required to communicate with more then one slave.Both modems are configured point-to-multipoint by default.Dial remote modem (it does not matter which modem dials)Type ‘ATDT nnnnXX’nnnn - Receiving Modem’s Address (number)XX - Extension Address of the port:00 for Main Port01 for Auxiliary Port92 for Remote Menu99 for Loop Back PortThis will establish a communications link. The front panel LEDs NETWORK LINK, CARRIERDETECT and ONLINE will be activated on both modems. Each modem will echo the message“CONNECT” onto the terminal.The Rx (RECEIVE) and Tx (TRANSMIT) data LEDs will flash as information is passed. If both modemsare connected to a terminal, information typed at the computer connected to one modem will beshown on the screen connected to the other.Once communication is finished, hang-up the modem with the following sequence:Type ‘+++’ on the terminal rapidly (within 1 second).Wait 1 second and the modem should echo “OK”.Type ‘ATH0’Both modems should echo “NO CARRIER”.Point to Point CommunicationPoint-to-Point Communication is similar to a wire that directly connects two devices together for datatransfer. Radio communication is established automatically and is transparent. This is used when data is tobe sent between two devices only.Set both modems to Point-to-Point Communication Mode by:Ensuring the Auxiliary Port of the modem is connected to a Com port and that theterminal package has the settings as in Setting up for a connection Step 1 on page 8.Hold Mode Select Button on the front panel of the unit to select Mode 6 – config.This will bring up the Configuration Menu on the terminal.Press ‘R’ to select “Radio Configuration Menu”.Press ‘P’ to select Mode Point to Point (Direct).Enter receiving modem’s address (20 by default).
INSTALLATION©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 10223889, Revision 2.2Press ‘Esc’ (escape) twice.Press ‘Y’ to exit3 Menu.This will establish a communications link. The NETWORK LINK, CARRIER DETECT and ONLINE LEDswill be activated and the TRANSMIT and RECEIVE LEDs will flash as information is passed.RFI-9256 LocationPlacement of your RFI-9256 unit is likely to have a significant impact on its performance. In general,the rule of thumb with RFI-9256’s is that the higher the placement of the antenna the better thecommunication link. In practice you should also place the transceiver away from computers, telephones,answering machines, and other similar equipment. It is also advisable to keep units away from each otherunless you synchronise their transmissions (see (1) Special Controls Menu, page 20).Using an External AntennaThe RFI-9256 has been designed to operate with the supplied antenna. In the case that a differentantenna is required please contact RF Innovations. The antenna should not be located within 20cm ofwhere people may come in contact.Placement of antennas is critical to a solid data link. Other antennas in close proximity are a potentialsource of interference; use the Radio Statistics to help identify potential problems. It is possible that slightadjustments in antenna placement (as little as 1 meter) will solve noise problems. Antennas systems shouldnot be located within 20cm of where people may come in contact.Long RS-232 cable runs should also be avoided in areas with frequent lightning activity or staticelectricity build up unless they are properly isolated from the transceiver. Nearby lightning strikes orelevated levels of static electricity may lead to voltage spikes on the line, causing failure in the transceiver’sRS-232 interface. RF Innovations manufactures a range of external Data interface converters forapplications that require long cable runs.WARNING: Any antennas placed outdoors must be properly grounded. Use extreme caution when installing antennasand follow all instructions included with the antennas. The use of external antennas subjects thetransceiver to greater exposure to direct lightning strikes. 3 The HayesTM commands will NOT work in Point-to-Point Mode by default.
CONFIGURATION©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 11223889, Revision 2.24 Configurationour radio modem allows you to change several parameters to optimise its performance for a particularapplication. All adjustments can be made through a menu system or by the HayesTM command set. Astandard terminal program can be used to access the menu system, which eliminates the need for customsoftware or Dipswitch settings.The menu invoked is displayed in Figure 4-1. The user can configure the Modem or obtain diagnosticand statistical information from the Radio. The changes made to the operation of the transceiver are storedin non-volatile memory to maintain the latest configuration even with loss of power.*** MirOS Main Menu (Version 2.0) ***XXXXX Version 1.23 Rev.BUnit Name:Unit is a: MASTERSerial No: XXXXXXXXXXXXManufactured Date: DD/MM/YYYY(R) Radio Configuration Menu(L) Protocol Port Selection(S) Serial Port Configuration Menu(M) Modem and I/O Configuration Menu(P) Radio Personality Menu(D) Diagnostics Menu(Esc) To Exit MenuEnter Choice:Figure 4-1 Main MenuY
USING FRONT PANEL MODES©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 12223889, Revision 2.25 Using Front Panel Modeshe RFI-9256 has a unique front panel user interface that can be used to assess the Radio performancewithout any additional test equipment. A picture of the front panel is shown in Figure 5-1 below. Theinterface is controlled by means of a small push button switch located on the front panel. A dual colourLED bar graph display is used to signal various settings to the user.When the Modem is first turned on the display defaults to Mode 1. The Operational Mode isnumbered down the left-hand side of the LED Display. In this mode, the purpose of each LED isindicated in the first column on the front panel (under the heading Mode 1), for example the top-mostLED indicates the status of the Network Link. If the switch is pressed the display will change and indicatethe current mode of operation by a RED LED. If the switch is held down longer than 1 second the ModeLED indicator will begin cycling through each mode. While the unit is in this cycling operation, the rate atwhich the mode selection cycles can be increased by pressing the button at a faster rate than the automatictoggle. Once the desired operational mode is reached then the switch can be released and afterapproximately one second delay the LED display will indicate the function for that mode.Details of the scale for Mode 2 (the receive signal power indicator mode) and Mode 3 (the transmitpower indicator mode) are also included on the front panel, under the respective headings.Mode 1The LED indicators in Mode 1 show the general flow of data and other radio characteristics. Table 5-1describes the front panel indicators in Mode 1.TFigure 5-1 Example of the front panel indicator lights
USING FRONT PANEL MODES©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 13223889, Revision 2.2LED NAME MODE 1 NETWORK LINK • Green - Modem has locked onto a signal from the same network.• Red - Modem has just lost link to the operational network and willdrop out if the connection is not established within the required time(as set in software). CARRIER DETECT • Green - An RF carrier has been detected and contains validinformation.• Red - An RF carrier has been detected and contains invalidinformation. TRANSMIT DATA • RS232 Data is being moved out the RS232 port through either themain or auxiliary port (to the terminal). RECEIVE DATA • RS232 Data is being received from the RS232 port from either themain or auxiliary port (from the terminal). ONLINE • Green - Data is being received from a remote modem that contains thereceiving modems address.• Red - A data packet has been lost or has not been able to be sent tothe remote modem (automatic ARQ function fail). POWER • Green - This indicator will flash on and off at one-second intervals toindicate the Radio internal functions are OK.• Red - This indicator will flash when the Modem has serious faults,such as channel synthesiser out of lock, low power or power supplyproblems, or software CRC errors. The user Fault event log can beused to find the cause of any intermittent problems (AUX portconfiguration).Table 5-1 LED Indicators Mode 1Mode 2When the RFI-9256 is in Mode 2 the display changes to a LED bar graph that indicates the RSSI(Received Signal Strength Indicator) value, the display has a resolution of 5dB. Intermediate steps areindicated by a RED display and whole numbers by a GREEN display i.e., the bottom two LEDs on greenwould indicate a received signal of -100dBm while a display of RED on the –100dBm level would indicate-105dBm. Table 5-2 below shows the scale RSSI according to the LEDs. Details are also shown on thefront panel under the heading Mode 2. -60dBm is the strongest signal, and -110dBm the weakest. Anysignal above -90dBm will result in a very strong signal, with high throughput. Weaker strengths will stilltransmit, but throughput may be affected.LED NAME MODE 2 (dBm) NETWORK LINK -60 CARRIER DETECT -70 TRANSMIT DATA -80 RECEIVE DATA -90 ONLINE -100 POWER -110Table 5-2 LED Indicators Mode2
USING FRONT PANEL MODES©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 14223889, Revision 2.2Mode 3When the RFI-9256 is in Mode 3 the display changes to an LED bar graph display that indicates theTransmitted RF power. The display has a resolution of 3dBm steps from a maximum output power of+30dBm or 1Watt using the RED LEDs. Table 5-3, below, show the relationship between the LEDs andthe indicated output power (included on the front panel) under the heading Mode 3. This display is used asan indicator to show the current level of the transmitted RF power.To meet Spread Spectrum Standards, the total power rating leaving the antenna is not allowed to radiatemore than 1 Watt. The power settings, in the software, allow the user to adjust the power level to maintainthe maximum possible EIRP. For example, if the user wishes to use a gain antenna, he/she must set thepower level in the modem so the total power radiated by the antenna does not exceed the EIRP.LED NAME MODE 3 (dBm) NETWORK LINK 30 CARRIER DETECT 27 TRANSMIT DATA 24 RECEIVE DATA 21 ONLINE 18 POWER 15Table 5-3 LED Indicators Mode 3Mode 4When the RFI-9256 is in Mode 4 the display changes to a LED bar graph display that indicates theTemperature of the RFI-9256 Radio. The temperature is displayed using green LEDs for steps of 10°Cfrom 10° to 60°C. Table 5-4 below shows the radio temperature according to the LEDs on the front panel.When the unit is operating within the green area the radio is operating inside its operating window.Temperatures above 65°C are displayed as a full red bar. Temperatures below 5° are displayed as asingle red LED. These are both fault conditions.LED NAME MODE 4 (°°°°C) NETWORK LINK 60 CARRIER DETECT 50 TRANSMIT DATA 40 RECEIVE DATA 30 ONLINE 20 POWER 10Table 5-4 LED Indicators Mode 4
USING FRONT PANEL MODES©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 15223889, Revision 2.2Mode 5When the RFI-9256 is in Mode 5 the display indicates the RS232 Port status. The user can then tell thelogic states of the RS232 control lines, a red LED indicates +12volts(logic on) and a green -12volts or noconnection (logic off). Table 5-5, below, shows the LED names and their equivalent function in Mode 5.LED NAME MODE 5 NETWORK LINK DSR (input) CARRIER DETECT DCD (output) TRANSMIT DATA TX (RS232 data out of external port) RECEIVE DATA RX (RS232 data in from external port) ONLINE CTS (input) POWER RTS (output)Table 5-5 LED Indicators Mode 5Mode 6 (config)When the display is set to Mode 6, the Configuration Menu options are available on the Auxiliary portat 19200,8,N,1. A terminal must be connected to the Auxiliary port with appropriate terminal software tocommunicate with the radio. A brief introduction to the menu command structure is given in the nextsection.The LED display on the front panel is the same as Mode 1. To determine which mode a unit is at anytime just press the button on the front panel.
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 16223889, Revision 2.26 Using Internal Menu Commandshe menu system was briefly described in Configuration. This menu provides the user with an interfacethat is controlled by the terminal device. It is here where configuration options are easily accessible.There are several methods of accessing the configuration menu. Note that some options do not come intoeffect until the menu system has been exited.Accessing the Configuration MenuMETHOD 1: Front Panel Mode 6 (config)The setup menu is invoked by:Connecting the Auxiliary Port of the RFI-9256 to any terminal program.Set the baud rate for that terminal to 19200, 8, N, 1.On the modem press and hold the front panel switch until Mode 6 - config is activated then releasethe switch.METHOD 2: Local Hayes CommandIf the front panel of the radio is inaccessible and the modem has a port configured as a Dialup thensetup menu can be invoked by:Connecting either RFI-9256 Port configured as Dialup any terminal program.Ensure the terminal communications settings are the same as those set on the modem.Type the AT? Command.METHOD 3: Remote MenuIf the modem itself is in accessible the setup menu can be invoked by:Dial the remote modem with port address 92, e.g. ‘ATDT 2092’.The internal menu, once invoked from Mode 6 - config, will display on the terminal screen as below inFigure 6-1.T
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 17223889, Revision 2.2*** MirOS Main Menu (Version 2.0) ***XXXXX Version 1.23 Rev.BUnit Name:Unit is a: MASTERSerial No: XXXXXXXXXXXXManufactured Date: DD/MM/YYYY(R) Radio Configuration Menu(L) Protocol Port Selection(S) Serial Port Configuration Menu(M) Modem and I/O Configuration Menu(P) Radio Personality Menu(D) Diagnostics Menu(Esc) To Exit MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-1 RFI-9256 Main Menu(R) Radio Configuration MenuThe Radio Configuration Menu allows the radio’s function within a network to be changed for differentapplications. The following menu in Figure 6-2 is an example of what is displayed.*** Radio Configuration Menu ***Unit is a MASTERNetwork Address = 32Rx Address = 20Hopping Pattern = 0Point to Point Connection(M) Set unit as Master(S) Set unit as Slave(N) Set Network address(L) Set Local Rx address(P) Set ports as Point to Point Direct(D) Set ports as Point to MultiPoint Dialup(R) Set ports as Dialup Repeater(1) Special Controls Menu(2) Link Control Menu(3) Radio Characteristics Menu(F) Restore Factory defaults(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-2 Radio Configuration Menu
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 18223889, Revision 2.2(M) Set unit as MasterIn any communications link, at least one modem must be configured as a Master. The Mastersynchronises communications with other Slaves. When this function is selected the radio is configuredas a master.To change the modem to a Master, press (M).(S) Set unit as SlaveIn any communication link one unit must be set as a Master and the rest as Slaves. Slaves can initiatecommunication but follow the synchronisation of the Master. Modems are configured as Slaves, bydefault.To change the modem to a Slave, press (S). Modems are configured as Slaves, by default(N) Set Network addressThe Network Address is the network identification number. Slaves synchronise with a Master that hasthe same Network Address. Radios ignore data originating from modems with another networkaddress. The network address must be the same for every Radio on that particular network.To change the Network Address, press (N). The following will be displayed:Enter Network Address value (0-63): 32The unit allows for up to 64 network addresses (0-63)4. The network address is 32 by default.(L) Set Local Rx addressThe Local Rx Address is used to identify individual modems within a point to multipoint network.Each Radio must have a unique address, otherwise more than one modem will answer when theaddress is dialed and destructive collisions will occur. Point to point communication does not usedialing, therefore both modems may have the same Rx number.Radio units configured as Repeaters (see Repeaters on page 74 ) are often given the same Rx number.Radios in different networks can have the same Local RX Address.To change the Rx Address, press (L). The following will be displayed:Enter Rx Address value as (1-9999): 20The unit allows for up to 9999 Rx addresses (1-9999). The Rx address is 20 by default.(P) Set Mode Point to Point DirectPoint to point communication is used to for links between two devices only and is equivalent to havingthe units linked by a cable, effectively making the radios transparent. For more information see Point toPoint on page 76.To change the radio configuration to Point to Point, press (P). The following will be displayed: 4 Address 0 is special address and should not be used as it is reserved for special broadcast modes. Also the generaladdress convention is that the Rx address of either a Base unit or a destination unit be a 4 digit number andrepeaters are 2 digit numbers without zero prefixes.
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 19223889, Revision 2.2Point To Point requires a Tx AddressEnter Tx Address value as (0-9999): 20The Tx address is the address of the other unit. The Tx address is 20 by default.(D) Set Mode Point to Multipoint (Dialup)In this mode the Master unit will act the same as a Hayes telephone line modem, and may be used todial out to any remote site. Repeaters can be used in this configuration and Slave devices can dial backto the Master as per normal Hayes modem conventions. For more information, see Section 9, page76.To change the radio configuration to Point to Multipoint, press (D). This is the default configuration.(R) Set unit as a Dialup RepeaterA repeater regenerates a signal and is used to extend the distance between end point radios, it can bethought up as grabbing a parcel and passing it to someone else. Repeaters are in pairs (back to back)with one configured as a Master and one as a Slave. They are interlinked (by connecting the Main Portsof each) so that data can be transferred via their RS-232 ports. The Auxiliary I/O ports must also beinterconnected to provide pass-through. See Repeaters, page 74.The Dialup Repeater mode also enables a number stripping mechanism to allow repeaters to bechained in a network or connected to a PSTN modem. Each repeater Slave strips its own RX addressfrom the dialed number sequence and then dials the radio or PSTN modem connected to the mainport. See Repeaters on page 74.The baud rates and other configuration issues are left to the users own discretion. Some parameters forcommunication are automatically preset but may be overridden, e.g., Hayes echo off and sync mode.To change the radio configuration to Dialup Repeater, press (R).(F) Factory DefaultsSets the radio modem back with factory defaults.
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 20223889, Revision 2.2(1) Special Controls MenuWhen the antennas from more than one radio are placed within close proximity, the units must besynchronised so that they do not block the transmission of each other. Although the radios are individuallyconfigured to work within separate networks (with different hopping patterns, network addresses), theymust transmit and receive information at the same time to prevent signal blocking. One modem must beconfigured as the sync output controller and the rest as sync output followers (note that a Slave unit cannotbe set as a follower because it has to synchronise with the master on the network). This will synchronisetransmission, however the frame size/length must be the same to enable synchronisation to work.To change the Special Control parameters, press (1).*** SPECIAL CONTROLS MENU ***Sync Mode = Output Sync Signal(1) Follow Sync Signal(2) Output Sync Signal(3) Repeater Sync Mode(4) No Sync Mode(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-3 Special Controls Menu(1) Follow Sync Signal – To set a modem (Master Unit Only) to follow a synchronisation signalprovided by another.(2) Output Sync Signal – To set a modem (Usually a Master or a Slave repeater) to output a framesynchronisation signal.(3) Repeater Sync Mode – To set a modem in a repeater setup (usually the Master repeater) to followthe synchronisation signal sent by the slave repeater in a repeater/follower fashion.(4) No Sync Mode – To disable synchronisation mode.(2) Link Control MenuTo change the Link Control parameters, press (2).
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 21223889, Revision 2.2*** Link Control Menu ***Main Port: ARQ Retries = 50Aux Port: ARQ Retries = 50Network fail timer = 5000msOnline request timer = 1000ms(A) Number of retries for ARQ(F) Network fail timeout(O) Online requests timer(B) Backoff Retry Enable/Disable(D) Set to Defaults(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-4 Link Control Menu(A) Number of retries for ARQThe ARQ (automatic repeat request) controls the number of times the Radio Modem will try to resenda packet of lost information before it gives up. This can be set as high as 255 retries. Each Link/Portcan be configured independently allowing for modes like broadcast to co-exist on the same modem, i.e.,a broadcast mode would normal only retry 3-5 times. Default is 50 for both Main and Auxiliary ports.To change the ARQ, press (A). The following will be displayed:Enter Number of Tx Retries (0-255): 50ARQ can be set from 0 to 255. It is 50 by default.(F) Network fail timeoutThe Network fail timeout controls the time the system waits when a signal is lost before attempting tore-synchronise. The NETWORK LINK LED on the front panel also indicates this loss. The defaultsetting is 5000ms.To change the Network fail timeout, press (F). The following will be displayed:Network Fail Timeout valueMust be greater than Online Request timerTimer value in milliseconds(100-30000): 5000The value can be set from 100 to 30000 and must be greater than the online request timer. It is 5000 bydefault.(O) Online requests timerThis timer controls the length of time between integrity checks on remote Slaves by the Master. Thissetting will affect the carrier detect LED on the front panel for the Master modem as data will only bereturned from the Slave modems at the preset time interval. The default setting is used in a large systemso that RF airtime is not wasted on the Slave to Master link, and the Master is not always tied upchecking for Slave integrity. This setting is also used to keep the system alive when no data is beingpassed.
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 22223889, Revision 2.2To change the ARQ, press (A). The following will be displayed:Online requires a timer value, which must beless than the Network fail timer = 5000msTimer value in milliseconds(40-5000): 1000The value can be set from 40 to 5000 and must be less than the Network fail timer. It is 1000 bydefault.(B) Back Off Retry Enable/Disable (Slaves only)This function is mainly for scenarios where you wish to connect to several slave radios simultaneouslyfrom a Master or where there is possibility of multiple slaves trying to dial or send protocol data to asingle Master/Base radio.To change, press (B). This will toggle Enabled/Disabled. The default is disabled.(D) Set to DefaultsSets the parameters back to their defaults.(3) Set Radio CharacteristicsTo change the Radio Characteristics parameters, press (3).*** Radio Characteristics Menu ***Hopping Pattern = 0Power setting = 20 dBmRSSI trigger level = -110Frame Time = 20 millisecondsMax Tx bytes per frame = 113Bias is Disabled(H) Hopping Pattern Sequence(P) Tx Power Menu(R) RSSI trigger level(F) Frame Time Menu(B) Directional Bias Menu(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-5 Radio Characteristics Menu(H) Hopping Pattern SequenceThere are 32 (0-31) hopping patterns available. The hopping pattern determines how the modem hopsthrough the frequency spectrum when transmitting (and receiving) data. Radio Modems on alternatehopping patterns will reduce interference from each other and maximise system throughput.To change the Hopping Pattern, press (H). The following will be displayed:Enter Hopping Pattern Number (0-31): 0
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 23223889, Revision 2.2There are 32 hopping patterns available (0-31). It is zero by default(P) TX POWER MENUThe Tx Power allows the ‘transmit’ power to be changed. Figure 6-6 below shows what output powerlevels are available. System engineers should use the minimum amount of power consistent withmaintaining a solid data link. This will minimize the amount of interference between units and otherequipment. Also the total output from the Antenna should not be more than 1 watt E.I.R.P (30dBm)noting that your antenna may provide gain and your cables and connectors produce a loss.*** Tx Power Menu ***Power setting: 20 dBm(0) 0 dBm(1) 10 dBm(2) 20 dBm(3) 25 dBm(4) 30 dBm(5) OFF(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-6 Tx Power Menu(R) RSSI trigger level – This value can be set between -120dBm and -50dBm. The RSSI triggerlevel is only used by a slave modem when the unit first looks to lock onto the operating network.Different values are used to enable the slave to better reject noise when first acquiring network link.The factory setting is optimal for most circumstances. Increase RSSI in situations where the signalstrength of noise is unusually high.To change the RSSI trigger level, press (R). The following will be displayed:Enter RSSI trigger value as dBm (-120 to -60): -110The value can be between –120 to –60 dBm. It is -110dbm by default
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 24223889, Revision 2.2(F) FRAME TIME MENUThis function changes the maximum length (in time) of each packet frame. If a frame was 8ms long,then there is less data transferred per frame than would be transmitted in a 35ms size frame. Thethroughput of data will decrease as the frame size decreases. The frame length also controls the datalatency. The factory default is 20ms. The 5ms frame time is only available in Point-to-Point Mode.Figure 6-7 shows the frame size menu.*** Frame Time Menu ***Frame Time = 20 milliseconds(1) 5 milliseconds(2) 8 milliseconds(3) 10 milliseconds(4) 15 milliseconds(5) 20 milliseconds(6) 25 milliseconds(7) 30 milliseconds(8) 35 milliseconds(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-7 Frame Time Menu(B) DIRECTIONAL BIAS MENUAlso known as the Frame Bias. This function is for systems that require high throughput in a singledirection. For example audio, video and Internet applications. This option allows an air speed rate ofapproximately 115kbps in one direction and approximately 9600bps in the other. Modems must beconfigured so that they have complimentary (opposite) bias configurations. This is shown in Figure 6-9.Figure 6-8 shows the menu that is displayed.*** Directional Bias Menu ***Directional Bias is Disabled(O) Outgoing/Upload(I) Incoming/Download(D) Disabled(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-8 Directional Bias Menu
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 25223889, Revision 2.2(L) Protocol Port Selection (Link/Port Protocol Menu)The following menus allow the user to select common protocols to be used between RS-232 devicesconnected to the radio modems.*** Protocol Port Selection ***Main Port: Protocol Type: Point to PointAux Port: Protocol Type: Point to Point(M) Main Port(A) Aux Port(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-10 Protocol Port Selection(M) Main Port – Select to change the protocol on the Main Port.(A) Aux Port – Select to change the protocol on the Auxiliary Port.After the port has been selected the user then enters the Link/Port Protocol Menu (Figure 6-11). Fromthis menu the user can assign a new protocol to the port that has been selected and configure it using thetwo submenus available.*** Link/Port Protocol Menu ***Main Port: Protocol Type: Point to Point(P) Protocol Selection Menu(C) Configure Protocol Menu(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-11 Link/Port Protocol MenuFigure 6-9 Example Use of Directional Bias
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 26223889, Revision 2.2(P) Protocol Selection Menu*** Protocol Selection Menu ***Main Port: Protocol Type: Point to Point(P) Point to Point(B) Broadcast(D) Hayes Dialup(M) Modbus(H) Honeywell(3) DNP3(T) TDE(X) Disabled(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-12 Port Selection Menu(P) Point to PointFor more information see Point to Point on page 76. In this mode link control parameters and Timerscan be set. (see Protocol Configuration Menu on page 27 )(B) BroadcastThis mode allows data to be broadcast from a Master to multiple slaves. The messages are not ARQ’ed(acknowledged) by the slave radios so data integrity is not guaranteed on data being sent from theMaster to Slaves but data being sent by Slaves to Master is ARQ’ed in the normal manner. The Masterstill utilises the ARQ retry setting (see (2) Link Control Menu on page 20) and will resend each packet tothe Slaves by this number. The slaves will automatically discard duplicate messages so the onlyconfiguration issue is the ARQ settings must be adjusted for reasonable performance (1 to 5) retries.Both Master and Slave units must be set to the broadcast protocol for them to coexist properly.(H) Hayes DialupFor more information see (R) Radio Configuration Menu on page 17.In this mode Hayes Command Controls can be set. (see (M) Hayes Command Control Menu on page 32 )(M) Modbus5The protocol decoder reads data from the assigned serial port and processes it as a Modbus RTUprotocol. The decoder conforms to the Modbus timing to determine beginning and ending of packets.The address is extracted and checked against a routing table (see Route Managing on page 28). If adestination radio can be located in the table then the packet is immediately forwarded to the remoteradio. Data will continue to be passed to the destination radio until the protocol decoder has found an“End of Packet” as determined by the Modbus timing specifications.Modbus protocol only supports a single byte destination address that only allows 255 radios to beaddressed. 5 Because of the structure of the ModBus protocol, it does not support Peer-to-Peer networking
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 27223889, Revision 2.2In this mode the routing table, packet timer and link control parameters and Timers can be set (seeProtocol Configuration Menu on page 27 ).(H) HoneywellThis is a Honeywell protocol. Honeywell protocol works similar to Modbus in the protocol decodingand routing except packets are of specific size so there is no need for a packet timer.In this mode the routing table, and link control parameters and Timers can be set (see ProtocolConfiguration Menu on page 27 ).(3) DNP3This is the FT3 Frame format (LPDU).In this mode the routing table, and link control parameters and Timers can be set (see ProtocolConfiguration Menu on page 27 ).(T) TDEThis is an Introl Systems protocol.In this mode the routing table, and link control parameters and Timers can be set. (see ProtocolConfiguration Menu on page 27 ).(X) DisabledDisables any transmission of data though the selected port to a remote radio. No protocol or mode isassigned. The port can still receive and output data sent from a remote radio but cannot reply.NOTE: The configuration menu will still be accessible on the AUX port.Protocol Configuration MenuIf a protocol is configurable then this menu will display the available options relevant to the protocolselected. For example, Figure 6-13 shows a configuration menu for a port, which is assigned to the HayesDialup protocol. The discussion of the protocol dependant configuration menus will be in ProtocolConfiguration Menus.*** Configure Protocol Menu ***Main Port: Protocol Type: Hayes Dialup(M) Hayes Command Control Menu(P) Tx (Out) Packetiser Timer(L) Link Control Menu(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-13 Hayes Dialup Example of the “Configure Protocol Menu”
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 28223889, Revision 2.2(P) Tx (Out) Packetiser TimerThe packet timer is used to in conjunction with Modbus protocol. When no data has been receivedfrom a remote modem for the Packet Timer duration then current cache of data is then passed out theserial port.To change the Tx (Out) Packetiser Timer value, press (P). The following will be displayed:Tx (Out) Packetiser Timer requires a timer value or 0 to disableEnter Timer value in milliseconds (0-1000): 0The value can range from 0 to 1000ms. It is 0ms by default and corresponds to disabled.(R) Remote AddressThis option only appears when the point-to-point protocol is selected. The remote address optionallows the user to change the Tx Address of the remote unit. In a point-to-point communication thisvalue needs to be set to correctly maintain a link between two modems.To change the Remote Address, press (R). The following will be displayed:Point to Point requires a Tx AddressEnter Remote Tx Address (0-9999): 20The value can range from 0 to 9999. It is 20 by default.(L) LINK CONTROL MENUPlease refer to (2) Link Control Menu on page 20.Protocol Configuration MenusDepending on the protocol the user has selected, a different menu (or no menu) will be available forselection. The following sections also contain background information to help the users understand thefunctionality of some protocols.ROUTE MANAGING
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 29223889, Revision 2.2The protocol decoder for the packet protocols such as Modbus, DNP3 etc, allows asystem of extracting the destination RTU address from the protocol and then mappingit to radio RX addresses. If a system contained a number of RTUs connected to a baseunit then the Master/Base unit could decode the RTU address of each slave and convert it to a remoteslave Rx address. RTU is an acronym for Remote Terminal Unit.The Rx Address is the address of the RFI modem. Each modem must have an address so that it candetermine whether the RF data received (through its antenna) was intended for it or not. The RTUaddress is the address of the device attached to the modem. This is analogous to dialing a telephone thathas a PC attached. The telephone has its own number, which must be dialed, yet the PC also has an IPaddress. The RTU address is part of the protocol header sent from the Master Control to the RFI-9256along the RS-232 link. It is up to the Routing Table to determine to which radios Rx Address the datamust be sent to in order for the correct RTU to receive the information. These ideas are demonstratedin the following figure, using the Modbus protocol.Default Route - This route is mostly used by Slaves and is probably a must have entry for any Slave ina protocol network. This route only requires the Rx address of the destination radio. This route is usedwhen no other route can be matched in the routing table.Single Route - This route explicitly maps an RTU address to a radios Rx address. It is the highestprivilege in a routing table.Mapped Route - This route maps a relationship between RTU addresses and radios Rx addresses.This is a very efficient method of describing a network providing the RTUs and radios can benumbered sequentially and has some correlation. This route configuration requires an RTU address tobe assigned as the base for the route and an RTU address to define the range of addresses to be used bythe route. It also requires the slave Rx address associated with the RTU address used as the base. Thealgorithm works as described in the next paragraph.The decoder subtracts RTU base address from the newly decoded RTU address the result acts as anoffset that is added to the Rx (Radio) address that was assigned as base address. For example if afollowing diagram was entered in the router then the base RTU address would be 20 and the rangeProtocolDecoding/RoutingRoute TypesFigure 6-14 Modbus Protocol Routing Example
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 30223889, Revision 2.2could be 23 or more the Radios Rx address would be 1000. When the decoder sees RTU address 21 itsubtracts it from the base RTU that would leave 1 this result is added to the Rx address would be Rxaddress 1001 (RTU 21).Range Route - This route mode routes any RTU address between a range of addresses to a singleRadio Rx address. It requests a start address for the range of RTU address, an end address and an Rxaddress of the destination radio.Figure 6-15 Relationship between Rx and RTU
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 31223889, Revision 2.2(R) ROUTE MANAGER MENUThis menu is for route-able protocols such as Modbus, Honeywell, DNP3 or TDE. If a new protocol isassigned to a port then any previous route settings for that port are removed. Please refer to RouteManaging on page 28 for information regarding routing.*** Route Manager Menu ***Main Port: Protocol Type: ModbusUsed Space : 0Free Space : 106Total Routes : 0Single Routes : 0Mapped Routes : 0Range Routes : 0No Default Route(A) Add Route(D) Delete Route(X) Delete All Routes(L) List All Routes(T) List Routes by Type(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-16 Route Manager Menu(X) Delete All RoutesThis option is used to delete all routes in the routing table for the selected port.To delete all routes, press (X). The following will be displayed:Are You Sure ? (Y/N)Select ‘Y’ if you want to delete all routes and ‘N’ to abort.(L) List All RoutesIn Figure 6-17 is an example of a Route table in a Master/Base Radio configuration. Slave/RTU radiosusually do not require an extensive routing table but should always have a Default Route configured.The following is the definitions for the table headings:IDX is the individual route identifier.Route Type is the function of the route (Route Types on page 29 for definitions)Route Source is the address that is found in the protocol packet and therefore theintended destination of the packet.Destination Radio is the radio that the packet is sent to.
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 32223889, Revision 2.2Idx Route Type Route Source Destination Radio 0 Single Route | Address 10 --> Dest. 9000:00 1 Single Route | Address 12 --> Dest. 9020:00 2 Single Route | Address 16 --> Dest. 9050:00 3 Mapped Route | From [ 20 to 30 ] --> Base 2000:00 4 Mapped Route | From [ 50 to 60 ] --> Base 4200:00 5 Range Route | From [ 80 to 120 ] --> Dest. 6000:00 6 Range Route | From [ 130 to 150 ] --> Dest. 7000:00 7 Default Route | All Other --> Dest. 4000:00Press Any Key to returnFigure 6-17 Route Table Listing(A) Add RouteWhen adding a route, the route type menu (Figure 6-18) is initiated. Please refer to Route Types on page29 for a definition on the routes available.*** Route Type Menu ***(D) Default Route(S) Single Route(M) Mapped Route(R) Range Route(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-18 Route Selection Menu(D) Delete a RouteWhen this option is selected the route type menu (Figure 6-18) is brought up to select the type of routeto be deleted. Once a route type is selected all the routes of that type is listed and the IDX (routeidentification number) is used to select the desired route to delete.(L) List Route by TypeWhen this option is selected a route type menu (Figure 6-18) is brought up to select the type of route tobe listed. Once a route type is selected all the routes of that type is listed.(M) HAYES COMMAND CONTROL MENUThe Hayes Command Control Menu allows the user to change Hayes compatible responses andresponse codes. For example, it is here in this menu the user can toggle the echo on/off and set theescape sequence character, etc.
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 33223889, Revision 2.2*** Hayes Command Control Menu ***Main Port: Hangup on DTR Dropped, Echo is ON, Response is ONEscape character = + Escape guard time = 1000(ms)Connect Timeout = 10000(ms)(C) Connect Timeout(X) Escape character (ie +)(G) Escape guard time(H) Hangup on DTR (low)(Z) Hangup on DTR Dropped(L) Local on DTR (low)(I) Ignore DTR(E) Echo (ON/OFF)(R) Modem returns response codes (ON/OFF)(D) Set to Defaults(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-19 Hayes Command Control Menu(C) Connect TimeoutThis is the wait time for “CONNECT”, which is the time the radio will wait for a valid connection.To set the Connect Timeout, press (C). The following will be displayed:Connect Timeout value in milliseconds (0-60000): 10000This time can be set between 100-30000ms. The default is 10000ms(X) Escape character (ie +)Allows the escape character to be changed. This is the character that is used in the escape sequence tohang-up the modem. The escape sequence consists of the escape character being typed three times,with a set communication-free periods of time before and after the sequence.To set the Escape Sequence Character, press (X). The following will be displayed:Enter new escape character: +The default is ‘+’.(G) Escape guard timeThe escape guard time is the time before and after the escape sequence has been entered that no activityis allowed on the data line. Otherwise the escape sequence will be ignored.To set the Escape Guard Time, press (G). The following will be displayed:Escape guard time value in milliseconds (50-10000): 1000The range of values allowed is between 50 and 10000ms. The default is 1000ms.
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 34223889, Revision 2.2(H) Hangup on DTR (low)The DTR is an RS-232 signal used to indicate to the modem whether the local terminal is ready tocommunicate. This option, and the following three, tells the modem what to do when the DTR signaldrops to low. Hang-up on DTR (low), is used to disconnect the call from a slave device when DTRdrops to low.(Z) Hangup on DTR DroppedHang-up on DTR dropped is used to disconnect call from a slave device when DTR changes from ahigh to a low.(L) Local on DTR (low)When DTR is low the modem goes into local mode. This is equivalent to typing the escape sequence.Once the unit is local it stays local until the online command (ATO) is used.(I) Ignore DTRSelect this option when the user requires the DTR signal to be ignored.(E) Echo (ON/OFF)Toggles the echo setting between on and off every time it is selected. This controls the RS232 dataresponses. When toggled off, (while in local command state) the character typed at the terminal will notbe echoed back to the screen.(R) Modem returns response codes (ON/OFF)This toggles whether the modem returns response codes or not and is used to suppress codes that aresent from the Modem such as the CONNECT response.(D) Set to DefaultsRestores factory defaults for the selected port (see Factory Defaults page 88 for settings).(A) ADVANCED FUNCTIONS MENUThis menu only appears when the Point-to-Point Protocol is selected. The packetiser system is amechanism to group or bundle data to avoid inter character or inter-packet delays induced by delaysin communication and the network traffic.On selection of the menu, the user will be requested the remote Tx Address before the menu willappear. The following will be displayed:Point to Point requires a Tx AddressEnter Remote Tx Address (0-9999): 20The Tx address is 20 by default.The menu that appears is shown in Figure 6-20.
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 35223889, Revision 2.2*** Advanced Functions Menu ***Main Port: Packet Timers: OutPut = Disabled, Input = DisabledMain Port: Rx Buffer Limit = 1024(T) Tx (Out) Packetiser Timer(R) Rx (In) Packetiser Timer(L) Rx Buffer Limit(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-20 Advanced Functions Menu(T) Tx (Out) Packetiser TimerThis selection allows a Packet timer value to be set. The modem will send a bundled packet ofinformation out through the serial Tx port when no data has been received for this period of time.To change the Tx (Out) Packetiser Timer value, press (T). The following will be displayed:Tx (Out) Packetiser Timer requires a timer value or 0 to disableEnter Timer value in milliseconds (0-1000): 0The value can range from 0 to 1000ms. It is 0ms by default and corresponds to disabled(R) Rx (In) Packetiser TimerThe Rx Packetiser prevents data from being sent to the remote modem until the timeout period hasexpired. Each character received on the Rx serial input resets this timer. This clumps the data togetherin the buffers so that each RF frame buffer is completely filled. It helps protocols such as MODBUSbecause they cannot tolerate inter-character delays. It can also help reduce latencies and increaseefficiency of slow frame rates.To change the Rx (In) Packetiser Timer value, press (R). The following will be displayed:Rx (In) Packetiser Timer requires a timer value or 0 to disableEnter Timer value in milliseconds (0-1000): 0The value can range from 0 to 1000ms. It is 0ms by default and corresponds to disabled(L) Rx Buffer LimitThe Rx Buffer Limit allows you to control how full the internal buffer should get before it triggers theflow control. Depending on the size of the packets of data being sent to modem, certain values of theBuffer Limit might improve the modem’s performance when dealing with data from the serial ports.To change the Rx Buffer Limit value, press (R). The following will be displayed:Enter Rx Buffer Limit (16-1024): 1024The value can range from 16 to 1024 bytes. It is 1024 bytes by default.
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 36223889, Revision 2.2(S) Serial Port Configuration MenuThe Port Selection Menu, shown in Figure 6-21, lets the user select the desired modes of operation ofeach of the two serial ports and shows their current settings.*** Port Selection Menu ***Main Port: 19200 Baud, No Parity, 8 Data, 1 Stop, No FlowMain Port: Packet Timers: OutPut = Disabled, Input = DisabledAux Port: 19200 Baud, No Parity, 8 Data, 1 Stop, No FlowAux Port: Packet Timers: OutPut = Disabled, Input = Disabled(M) Main Port(A) Aux Port(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-21 Port Selection Menu (Serial)(M) Main Port – Select to change the serial port settings on the Main Port.(A) Aux Port – Select to change the serial port settings on the Auxiliary Port.Once the desired port is selected the serial port settings menu in Figure 6-22 is displayed. This menu isthe same for both ports.*** Serial Port Configuration Menu ***Main Port: 19200 Baud, No Parity, 8 Data, 1 Stop, No FlowMain Port: Packet Timers: OutPut = Disabled, Input = DisabledMain Port: Rx Buffer Limit = 1024(B) Baud Rate Menu(F) Flow Control Menu(N) No Parity(E) Even Parity(O) Odd Parity(1) One Stop Bit(2) Two Stop Bits(7) Seven Bit Data(8) Eight Bit Data(A) Advanced Functions Menu(D) Set to Defaults(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-22 Serial Port Configuration Menu
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 37223889, Revision 2.2(N) No Parity / (E) Even Parity / (O) Odd ParityThese selections change the parity used for the serial connection. When a selection is made it isdisplayed in the menu but not implemented until the menu is exited.To select the Parity simply press the corresponding letter.(1) One Stop Bit / (2) Two Stop BitsThese selections change the number of stop bits used in the serial connection. When a selection is madeit is displayed in the menu but not implemented until the menu is exited.To select the Stop Bits, simply press the corresponding number.(7) Seven Bit Data / (8) Eight Bit DataThese selections change the number of data bits used in the serial connection. When a selection is madeit is displayed in the menu but not implemented until the menu is exited.To select size of the data within a packet, press the corresponding number.(D) Set to DefaultsThis selection restores factory defaults for the selected serial port (see Factory Defaults page 88 forsettings).(B) Baud Rate MenuThe baud rate can be changed to several different speeds. When selected the following menu shown inFigure 6-23 is displayed. Both ports use the same menu however the ports are configured independently.*** Baud Rate Menu ***Main Port: Baud Rate = 19200(0) 115200(1) 57600(2) 38400(3) 19200(4) 9600(5) 4800(6) 2400(7) 1200(8) 600(9) 300(A) 110(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-23 Baud Rate MenuTo select a baud rate select the corresponding number (or character) beside the speed. The default baudrate is 19200.
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 38223889, Revision 2.2(F) Flow Control MenuThis option allows you to select the type of flow control between the modem and local device. FlowControl is used to prevent data loss from a buffer overflow. The modem and terminal must use the sametype of flow control. The type of flow control is selected when the menu option is chosen. This is shown inFigure 6-24 below. The main port and auxiliary port are configured independently however the auxiliary portdoes not support hardware flow control.*** Flow Control Menu ***Main Port: No Flow(H) Hardware Flow (RTS/CTS)(S) Software Flow (XON/XOFF)(N) No Flow(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-24 Flow Control Menu(A) Advanced Functions MenuFor menu options please refer to (A) Advanced Functions Menu on page 34.(M) Modem and I/O Configuration MenuThe Modem Configuration Menu in Figure 6-25 below allows the lower levels of the modem’soperations to be configured according to user specific requirements. The selections available from thismenu are shown below. This section is designed to mimic a Hayes compatible modem.*** Modem And I/O Configuration Menu ***(H) Hayes Command Control Menu(D) DCD Control Menu(R) RTS Control Menu(A) Auxiliary I/O Port(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-25 Modem Configuration Menu
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 39223889, Revision 2.2If handshaking (flow control) is enabled on the serial ports then the corresponding control lines will notbe available within this menu selection, i.e. if hardware is enabled on the Main port then (1) DCD ControlMenu will not be available.(H) Hayes Command Control Menu (Port Selection Menu)The Hayes Commands are a lower level of communication (then the menu system) between a modemand device. These commands allow the RFI-9256 to emulate a landline telephone modem. Details of theHayesTM commands are in section 7. The Port Selection Menu appears before the Hayes CommandControl Menu so the user can select the port to apply the changes to.*** Port Selection Menu ***Main Port: Hangup on DTR Dropped, Echo is ON, Response is ONEscape character = + Escape guard time = 1000(ms)Connect Timeout = 10000(ms)Aux Port: Echo is ON, Response is ONEscape character = + Escape guard time = 1000(ms)Connect Timeout = 10000(ms)(M) Main Port(A) Aux Port(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-26 Modem Port Selection Menu(M) Main Port – Select to change the Hayes Command settings on the Main Port.(A) Aux Port – Select to change the Hayes Command settings on the Auxiliary Port.The menu options for the Hayes Command Control Menu are the same as those previously mention.Please see (M) Hayes Command Control Menu on page 32(D) DCD Control MenuDCD (Data Carrier Detect) is used for flow control. The following menu in Figure 6-27 allows theDCD signal6 to be asserted by one of the following conditions. Each time a selection is made between (0)and (8) that function becomes the DCD MODE.This menu is not available if the Auxiliary port handshaking (flow control) is set to hardware. 6 Valid control conditions for DCD are ON (active) = + 12volts / OFF= - 12volts as per RS232 conventions.
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 40223889, Revision 2.2*** DCD Output Control Menu ***DCD MODE: ONLINE controls DCD(0) ONLINE controls DCD(1) NETWORK LINK controls DCD(2) CARRIER DETECT controls DCD(3) Remote DSR controls DCD(4) Local DSR controls DCD(5) Remote CTS controls DCD(6) Local CTS controls DCD(7) DCD Always ON(8) DCD Always OFF(9) DCD disabled(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-27 DCD Output Control Menu(0) ONLINE controls DCDDCD is active when the radio unit is ONLINE.(1) NETWORK LINK controls DCDDCD is active when the NETWORK LINK is active.(2) CARRIER DETECT controls DCDDCD is active when a valid carrier signal is detected from another radio.(3) Remote DSR controls DCDDCD is active when a remote radio’s DSR input line is active.(4) Local DSR controls DCDDCD is active when the local radio’s DSR input line is active.(5) Remote CTS controls DCDDCD is active when a remote radio’s CTS input line is active.(6) Local CTS controls DCDDCD is active when the local radio’s CTS input line is active.(7) DCD Always ONDCD is always set to ON.(8) DCD Always OFFDCD is always set to OFF.(9) DCD disabledDCD control has been disabled.
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 41223889, Revision 2.2(R) RTS Control MenuRTS (Request to Send) is used in flow control. The following menu in Figure 6-28 allows the RTS signal7to be asserted by one of the following conditions.This menu is not available if the Aux port handshaking is set to hardware.*** RTS Output Control Menu ***RTS MODE: RTS Always ON(0) ONLINE controls RTS(1) NETWORK LINK controls RTS(2) CARRIER DETECT controls RTS(3) Remote DSR controls RTS(4) Local DSR controls RTS(5) Remote CTS controls RTS(6) Local CTS controls RTS(7) RTS Always ON(8) RTS Always OFF(9) RTS disabled(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-28 RTS Output Control Menu(0) ONLINE controls RTSRTS is active when the radio unit is ONLINE.(1) NETWORK LINK controls RTSRTS is active when the NETWORK LINK is active.(2) CARRIER DETECT controls RTSRTS is active when a valid carrier signal is detected from another radio.(3) Remote DSR controls RTSRTS is active when a remote radio’s DSR input line is active.(4) Local DSR controls RTSRTS is active when the local radio’s DSR input line is active.(5) Remote CTS controls RTSRTS is active when a remote radio’s CTS input line is active.(6) Local CTS controls RTSRTS is active when the local radio’s CTS input line is active. 7 Valid control conditions for RTS are ON = +12volts, OFF = -12volts as per RS232 conventions.
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 42223889, Revision 2.2(7) RTS Always ONRTS is always set to ON.(8) RTS Always OFFRTS is always set to OFF.(9) RTS disabledRTS control has been disabled.(A) Auxiliary I/O PortThis menu configures the auxiliary Input/Outputs described in section Auxiliary Input/Output Port onpage 79. The following menu in Figure 6-29 shows the options available.*** Auxiliary I/O Config Menu ***Sample Time = 500 (ms)Aux I/O follows remote = Disabled(D) Aux I/O Direction Menu(P) Powerup defaults Menu(S) Sample Rate(F) Aux I/O follows remote(E) Enable/Disable Aux I/O(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-29 Auxiliary I/O Control Menu(S) Sample RateThis allows the sampling time of the I/O port to be changed.To change the Sampling Rate, press (S). The following will be displayed:Update Timer value in milliseconds (8-5000): 500The sampling time can be set between 8ms and 5000ms (5seconds). The default is 500.(F) Auxiliary I/O Follows RemoteThis allows the I/O port to be controlled by another radio. This is used when data needs to be passedfrom one radio to another for control applications.Every time it is selected the function is toggled to either Aux I/O follows remote = Enabled, or AuxI/O follows remote = Disabled. Default is disabled(E) Enable/Disable Auxiliary I/OWhenever this key is pressed the Auxiliary Remote setting toggles between ON and OFF. When OFFthe Aux I/O will not operate and the power up defaults will not be in operation.
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 43223889, Revision 2.2(D) AUX I/O DIRECTION MENUSelecting this option allows the I/O line to be toggled between being either an input or an output. Thefollowing menu in Figure 6-30 is displayed when it is selected.*** Aux I/O Direction Menu ***Input: 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1BIT MODE(0) INPUT(1) INPUT(2) INPUT(3) INPUT(4) INPUT(5) INPUT(6) INPUT(7) INPUT(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-30 Auxiliary I/O Bit Set MenuThe I/O pin is toggled between input and output when its corresponding bit number is selected. Thefirst line of the display shows the current status of the I/O control.(P) POWERUP DEFAULTS MENUSelecting this option allows the power up states of the I/O lines to be configured. If an I/O line is setas an input then it cannot be configured to be high or low at power up, since it is a high impedanceinput. Therefore, the status will not change when the I/O port numbers are selected. The settings aretoggled between low and high every time the I/O port number is selected. An example of the menu isshown in Figure 6-31.
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 44223889, Revision 2.2*** Powerup Defaults Menu ***BIT MODE(0) N/A(1) N/A(2) N/A(3) N/A(4) N/A(5) N/A(6) N/A(7) N/A(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-31 Aux I/O Power-up Menu(P) Radio Personality MenuThe personality menu is shown below in Figure 6-32. It is used to set the name, the menu password, thecustomer security ID and other personality options.*** Radio Personality Menu ***Unit Name:Time: 08:36:55Menu Password is DisabledSecurity Code is DisabledMenu Timeout is 15 minutes(U) Set Unit Name(P) Set Menu Password(R) Remove Menu Password(S) Set Security Code(D) Delete Security Code(T) Set Current Time(M) Set Menu Timeout(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-32 Radio Personality Menu(U) Set Unit NameThis selection allows the name of the unit to be set. This can help identify each unit on the network byname, location, number or function.(P) Set Menu PasswordThis selection allows the menu password to be changed. Therefore an unauthorised person cannotenter the menu system and change the radio’s settings.
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 45223889, Revision 2.2(R) Remove Menu PasswordThis selection removes the password used to access the radio's menu. With the password removed thepassword protection is disabled.(S) Set Security CodeThis selection allows the user to set the security code. The security code protects the users radionetwork from interference from other networks using RFI-9256 modems. The code is a 32bit (9 digit)number, which allows 0 to 4294967295 combinations.(D) Delete Security CodeThis selection allows the user to delete the security code(T) Set Current TimeThis allows the real time clock’s time to be set. Allow the RFI-9256 doesn’t contain a true real timeclock it can maintain a fairly accurate notion of time.(M) Set Menu TimeoutThis allows the user to select the amount time a menu remains idle before it is closed. Default is 15minutes.(D) Diagnostics MenuThe diagnostic Menu shown in Figure 6-33 is used to test functions of the Radio Modems performance.*** Diagnostics Menu ***(S) Display Status(E) Event Log Menu(T) Test Indicator LEDs(N) Show channel signal/noise(L) Show Stats/Logging(M) Test Link Margin(1) Statistics Menu(2) Display Tasks(3) Display Links(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-33 Diagnostics Menu(S) Display StatusThis function gives a summary of the information regarding the configuration of the radio. Thefollowing table in Figure 6-34 gives an example of what information is shown when this function isenabled.
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 46223889, Revision 2.2-------------------------- STATUS --------------------------Unit Name:Serial Number: 010141CF1297Manufactured Date: 21/02/2000RFI-9256 Version 1.22 Rev.A AustraliaBuild Date: Oct 20 2000 Time: 11:59:59Unit is a MASTERPoint to Multipoint Dialup ConnectionNetwork Address = 32Rx Address = 20Hopping Pattern = 19Power setting = 30 dBmRSSI trigger level = -60Frame Time = 35 millisecondsMax Tx bytes per frame = 221Bias is DisabledUNLOCKEDRSSI = 0 Noise floor = -137Temperature = 42.5cCRC32 = 715FA77A of size 127892 bytesCRC check CorrectPress Any Key to returnFigure 6-34 Unit Status Display(T) Test Indicator LEDsSelecting this function starts a test of the front panel LEDs. This is a visual test and the LEDs must beobserved while this test is in progress. It simply turns the LEDs on and off operating using all thecolours in a predefined sequence.(N) Show channel signal/noiseWhen this function is selected, a table in Figure 6-35 is displayed showing the signal and noise levels foreach channel used within that hopping pattern. The following table is an example of what is displayed.The reading on the signal row is the RSSI (received signal strength indicator in dBm) of the radio foreach channel the unit operates on. If a ‘??’ is displayed as the signal value then there wasn’t a recentsample for that channel.
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 47223889, Revision 2.2Channel 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11Signal -098 -099 -097 -126 -100 -104 -095 -102 -099 -098 -103Noise -122 -120 -124 -126 -123 -124 -131 -126 -122 -128 -129Channel 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22Signal -123 -104 -098 -095 -100 -103 -102 -097 -099 -095 -099Noise -123 -123 -128 -128 -123 -123 -122 -123 -125 -127 -125Channel 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33Signal -096 -104 -102 -099 -096 -098 -100 -127 -105 -103 -100Noise -125 -122 -129 -128 -132 -120 -127 -127 -132 -122 -130Channel 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44Signal -102 -096 -100 -097 -099 -103 -102 -097 -095 -101 -105Noise -130 -125 -121 -127 -125 -120 -127 -121 -125 -130 -125Channel 45 46 47 48 49 50 51Signal -101 -104 -097 -099 -102 -098 -096Noise -124 -121 -125 -125 -128 -120 -128Average signal = -95Average noise = -112Press Any Key to continue or ESC to quitFigure 6-35 Example of a Channel Signal/Noise Log(L) Show LoggingThis function is the same as the in the Radio Statistics Menu explained previously.(M) Test Link MarginThis function displays the average signal and average noise the radio modem is measuring.If the unit is configured as a Master then it will require an address of the Slave.Enter Remote Tx Address value (0-9999):When selected, a test is started, and the following message is displayed.The test output is the same as that shown below. The Diagnostic menu is then displayed again.Testing Link Margin - Please Wait(2) Display TasksThe Tasks, which are displayed below in Figure 6-36 are assigned to the radio’s controller when they areenabled. These tasks are performed at predetermined times by the controller and do not affect thetransfer of data. It is an indication of the amount of work the controller is doing. Tasks are added orremoved from the list as functions are enabled or disabled by the user.
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 48223889, Revision 2.2Idx Timer Handle Param Task Name 0 0 100 0 Serial Flow MAIN 1 10 101 0 Front Button 2 10 102 0 Front Panel 3 10 103 0 Modem Ctrl 4 10 104 0 AltComm Status 5 5 105 0 Hayes Modem MAIN 6 5 106 1 Hayes Modem AUX 7 10 107 0 Online Status 8 1 108 0 Link Layer 9 10 117 0 Console 10 12 118 0 Main Menu---------------------------------------Press Any Key to returnFigure 6-36 Tasks Display(3) Display LinksThis display is for diagnostics only.The Links display shows the current status of communication connections to the Radio. An example ofthe Dialup Link display and Point-to-Point Link display is in Figure 6-37.Idx LocSrc LocExt DestSrc DestExt DestAddr State Link Name 0 0 0 0 0 1000 5 MAIN Dialup Idx LocSrc DestSrc DestAddr State Link Name 1 1 1 1001 3 AUX PtoP-----------------------------------------------------------Press Any Key to returnFigure 6-37 Links DisplayIdx is the Index Number is used internally but indicates the number of links.LocSrc is the local port number that is the source/destination for the data.LocExt is the extension that has been dial if a remote has dialed this unit.DestSrc is the remote port that is the source/destination for the data.DestExt is the extension that this unit has dialed.DestAddr is the remote unit address.State is the state of the link (i.e. idle, active).Link Name is the name assigned to the link. It reflects the mode of operation for that link.The source/destination ports are one of three ports, the main, auxiliary or the virtual port. The virtual portis an internal port used by the radio to communicate through the menus.
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 49223889, Revision 2.2(F) Fault log menuThe following menu in Figure 6-38 shows the logging menu which is for general debugging informationused only by RFI or to obtain feedback from a customer.*** Log Manager Menu ***Log Level = Debug Information(V) View Log(L) Set Logging Level(C) Clear Log(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-38 Fault Log Menu(V) View LogUsed to actually view the debugging information supplied by the radio modem.(C) Clear LogUsed to clear the logging file so new data can be logged for debugging purposes.(L) SET LOGGING LEVELSelected to change the type of information logged by the radio modem for display when using the (V)command as shown below in Figure 6-39.*** Log Level Menu ***Log Level = Debug Information(0) Errors Only(1) Warnings and Errors(2) Status Information(3) General Information(4) Debug Information(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-39 Log Level Menu(1) Statistics MenuAs the Modem operates in its normal modes it builds up a picture of how well it is operating in anygiven environment and keeps track of the statistics for that operation. The user may access these statistics
USING INTERNAL MENU COMMANDS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 50223889, Revision 2.2and use them to accurately predict the link performance, data throughput or other operational parameters.The following menu Figure 6-40 shows the functions available.*** Statistics Menu ***(N) Show channel signal/noise(L) Show Stats/Logging(P) Reset Physical Layer Logging(S) Reset Serial Logging(Esc) Previous MenuEnter Choice:Figure 6-40 Statistics Menu(N) Show channel signal/noiseThis function is exactly the same as in the Radio Statistics Menu explained previously.(L) Show Stats/LoggingThis function shows the statistics relating to the quality of the data throughput and informationregarding the performance of both serial ports. The following table in Figure 6-41 is an example of whatis shown when this function is selected.Frame count = 63972 Empty Frames = 63972Good packets = 0 Bad packets = 0Lost packets = 0 Retries = 0Good Headers = 0 Bad Headers = 0Lost Frame Lock = 255 Low RSSI = 0Data Sent = 187693 Data Recv = 187693Rx Overflows = 0 Rx Overruns = 0Tx Overflows = 0 Busy waits = 0--------------------------------------------------------------MAIN: Tx = 187693 Rx = 187693Rx Errors = 0 Overflow = 0 Overrun = 0 Framing = 0Tx Errors = 0 Overflow = 0AUX: Tx = 90600 Rx = 531Rx Errors = 0 Overflow = 0 Overrun = 0 Framing = 0Tx Errors = 0 Overflow = 0Press Any Key to returnFigure 6-41 Logging Screen(P) Clear Physical Layer LoggingThis function simply clears the physical layer logging information from memory.(S) Clear Serial Layer LoggingThis function simply clears the serial layer logging information from memory.
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 51223889, Revision 2.27 The HayesTM Compatible AT Command Sethe RFI-9256 supports many Hayes compatible commands and command sequences, this enablesusers and operators to fully control and operate the Radio Modem and in most cases emulate land lineor phone modems for their communication needs. Some commands are implemented for completenessonly and do not perform any function.The Hayes commands may be entered manually through a terminal or automated through dialerprograms and scripts. Most commands, with exception of the ‘%’ register (Table 7-5) and ConnectionCommands (Table 7-3), may be concatenated into a single command string. Commands or command stringsmust be terminated with a Carriage Return <CR> code produced by the Enter key. AT Commands maybe used if the terminal attached to the modem will not understand the menu system, for example a PLCterminal. In addition to the modem configuration, AT Commands are used to dial and hang-up the remotemodem for Point to Multipoint Communication.The AT CommandsThe AT commands are a group of special commands recognised by your modem. These commandsderive their name from the letters AT, which are used to prefix commands. Before continuing:Run your communications software and enter local mode (or terminal mode) at 19200-baud, 8 bit data, No parity, One stop bit and no flow control or handshaking. If these values havebeen changed for the modem then the communications software needs to be set the same as theunit it is communicating to.The Attention CodeAn AT (sometimes known as the ATtention code) usually precedes all commands being sent to themodem. It is used to gain the modem’s attention, informing it that you are about to send a command. Forexample:Type the command: ATI2 <CR>Your modem’s firmware identity message will appear on your terminal screen. If you type I2 only, yourmodem will not respond.You may enter the attention code in all upper case, or all lower case letters, such as: AT or atMultiple CommandsYou may place multiple modem commands after an AT provided the total number of characters doesnot exceed 255. For example, a valid command to display the modem’s internal temperature twice is:T
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 52223889, Revision 2.2Type in the command: ATI9I9 <CR>An AT is not required in front of the second I9 command8. You only need one attention code for eachcommand line. To make this command more readable, you can add spaces between the two commands:Type in the command: AT I9 I9 <CR>The modem will execute the command as if the spaces are not there.Port Selection ModifierUnlike conventional modems the RFI-9256 has two serial ports. Each can be configuredindependently. So to allow access and configuration of alternative ports a modifier may be appended to theend of the command string.This modifier is a colon followed by a port number from 0-1. For example ‘:00’ would be port 00 alsocalled the Main port, ‘:01’ would be the Auxiliary port.Typing in the command: ATS80:01 <CR>, would connect the port to the auxiliary port ofthe remote unit addressed 80 (Rx = 80).The Escape SequenceWhen there is no communications link established to a remote modem, and you issue commands, alldialogue is occurring between your computer and the local modem. This situation is known as LocalCommand State.When you connect to a remote modem, dialogue is occurring between your computer and the remotemodem (or what is connected to the remote modem). This is known as On-line State. Once a modementers on-line state, it assumes all the data you send it is to be sent on to the remote modem, so it ignoresany AT commands you give it.To force the modem to return to local command state, enter an escape sequence. An escape sequenceconsists of a one second delay, three characters (default is ‘+’) typed rapidly and another one-second delay.For example if you dial a remote modem:Type: ATDT 2000 <CR>If the remote modem connects then the local modem will enter the ‘on-line’ state and your terminal willdisplay the message CONNECT.Now try to view the modem’s firmware identity code: 8 There are some commands that cannot be linked as multiple commands. These commands have to appear on their own and areoutlined in the tables on page 70.
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 53223889, Revision 2.2Type: ATI2 <CR>Your command will be ignored. This is because the modem assumes you are typing characters to besent to a remote system.Now type an escape sequence. Do not type any characters for one second, type +++ rapidly and waitanother full second. The modem responds with an OK message.You may now view the modem’s firmware identity.Type: ATI2 <CR>The H0 command is used to hang-up and end the test.Type: ATH0 <CR>Unlike the other commands, you should not type AT before the escape sequence, or type a carriagereturn after it. Instead, wait a full second before you type the escape sequence and then a full secondafter typing it. As soon as the modem returns to local command state, it will respond with the message:OKThis waiting period before and after the escape sequence is called the Escape Sequence Guard Time. Thisallows the modem to distinguish the escape sequence from the normal flow of information betweenmodems.You can change the character used for the escape sequence by changing the value of ‘S’ Register 2.You can change the length of the escape sequence guard time by changing the value of ‘S’ Register 12.Response CodesYour modem is capable of telling you, with on screen messages, what it is doing. These messages areknown response codes or result codes, and you will see them from time to time.For example:After a command is successfully executed, the response is: OK
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 54223889, Revision 2.2After a connection is established, the response is: CONNECTDialingThe AT commands may be used to initiate dialing with the modem.The D (Dial) command is used to initiate a telephone call. The most basic form of the D Command is:ATD numberWhere the number is the telephone number you are dialing.Having set your communications software for 19200 bps operation:Type: ATD1234 <CR>Your modem dials the number ‘1234’. You may substitute this number for the number of anyremote modem.If your modem receives a character from your computer while dialing is being performed, itimmediately hangs up, sends a NO CARRIER response message to the computer and returnsto local command state.After a few seconds the message, CONNECT appears on the screen.If a NO CARRIER message appears, your modem has not been able to make a connection. Checkyour communications software is set for 19200 bps operation and your modem is correctly connectedto your computer.To hang up the modem, type an escape sequence (+++). The modem responds with an OK message.Type: ATH0 <CR>The modem hangs up.Hanging UpThe H0 command is used to hang up the modem. After you have finished communicating withanother modem you must hang up your modem.Similarly, you must hang up the phone after calling another person. If you don’t, no one will be able tocall you.To hang up your modem:Type: ATH0 <CR>
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 55223889, Revision 2.2The modem will return an OK response message9.Configuring the ModemYour modem allows you to tailor its operating parameters to suit your own particular requirements. Themodem uses S Registers to alter the configuration profile. Each S Register contains a decimal value torepresent a time delay, an ASCII character or the modems phone number (the interpretation of each valuediffers with each S Register).The modem allows you to save the contents of the S Registers and certain communication settings innon-volatile memory (&W). This means the entire configuration profile will be retained after you haveswitched your modem OFF.The modem also has factory default settings stored internally, allowing you to change thecommunication settings and S Register values and then recall the factory default configuration profile storedin your modem when you originally purchased it. The factory defaults have been selected so most users willbe able to make immediate use of their modem, with minimum changes.You may restore your modem to its factory defaults at any time:Type: AT&F <CR>Viewing the Current ConfigurationThe &V command allows you to view the current configuration of your modem. When you issue the&V command, your modem sends a list of the current AT command and S Register settings to yourcomputer. 9 If you are getting no response it is likely to because local command state has not been entered. See The Escape Sequence.
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 56223889, Revision 2.2Modem CommandsAT? Menu ModeThis command allows you to use a menu system to configure the modem. There are manyextended modes of operation only available from the menu, the protocol settings for example.After you exit the menu through the Escape key the modem will return to the command mode.This menu command is more versatile than the one brought up by the front panel button becauseit works for any serial port settings (as long as the modem and terminal software have the samesettings).ATD DialThis command allows you to dial a telephone number. The basic dialing command is:ATDXXXX:YYATD followed by the remote modem Rx address (XXXX) and port number (YY).For Example:To dial the number 2356 78Type: ATD2356 78 <CR>You may use hyphens or spaces. They will be ignored by the modem, but they will make it easierto read the command line.For example:Type: ATD 2356-78 <CR>☞ D command must be the final command on a command line.ATE EchoThe E command allows you to select whether the characters you type at your keyboard (while inthe local command state) will be echoed back to your computer screen by the modem.Command DescriptionATE0 Disable local command state echoATE1 Enable local command state echoATH Hang UpThe H command forces the modem to hang up.Command DescriptionATH0 Hang up
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 57223889, Revision 2.2ATI InformationTo display various information about your modem including its firmware version.Command DescriptionATI Display Modems Firmware IDATI0 Display numeric identity code (UNIMODEM PnP response)ATI1 Display CRC 32 Firmware checksum valueATI2 Display ERROR or OK for the CRC Firmware checksumATI3 Display firmware revision levelATI4 Display firmware revision/build dateATI5 Display Modem Manufacture DateATI6 Display Modem Serial NumberATI7 Display Modem Identification String.ATI8 Display Get Connect TypeATI9 Display Internal Temperature in Deg CATI10 Display Offline time in millisecondsATI11 Display Average RSSI valueATI12 Display Average NOISE valueATI13 Display Get current port IDATI14 Display Link StatusATO Return to On-Line StateThe O command enables you to return to on-line state from local command state.When you are on-line (connected to a remote computer), anything you type is sent on to theremote computer. If you want to send commands to your modem, you must return to localcommand state by typing the escape sequence (+++). When you are ready to return to on-linestate, use the O command.☞ The O command must be the last command on the command line.ExamplesType: '+++', your modem will return to local command state.Type: ATO <CR> Your modem will return to on-line state.ATQ Quiet (Suppress Response Codes)Your modem has a variety of messages or response codes that it sends in response to variouscommands. Examples of these codes are the OK and CONNECT messages. The Q commandallows you to switch these messages on and off.If you switch the messages off, no response codes will be displayed on your screen — with theexception of responses from the ATSn? Command and AT&V command.Command DescriptionATQ0 Send response codes to the screenATQ1 Do not send response codes to the screen
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 58223889, Revision 2.2ATV Verbal Response CodesYour modem can display either verbal or numeric response codes in response to variouscommands. The V command enables you to select which type of response codes you wantdisplayed.See Table 7-6 for a full list of the response codes supported by your modem.Command DescriptionATV0 Numeric response codesATV1 Verbal response codesSee AlsoATQ Quiet (Suppress Response Codes)ATW Delayed ResponseTo support software that cannot cope with the high connection establishment speed of the radiothen this option allows the response to be delayed for 1 second before returning the CONNECTresponse.The W command enables you to select which type of response speed you want.Command DescriptionATW0 Fast Response ModeATW1 Slow Response modeAT&C Controlling Data Carrier DetectDCD is an RS-232 signal used to indicate to the computer that remote modem is ready tocommunicate. The &C command is used to tell the modem how it will control the DCD output.Command DescriptionAT&C0 DCD is always asserted (the computer assumes the remote modem is ready to communicate).AT&C1 DCD follows the online produced by a connection to a remote modem.AT&C2 DCD follows the DSR from a remote modem
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 59223889, Revision 2.2AT&D Controlling Data Terminal ReadyDTR is an RS-232 signal used to indicate to the modem whether your local computer is ready tocommunicate. The &D command is used to tell the modem how it will react when the DTRsignal goes low.Command DescriptionAT&D0 The modem ignores the DTR signal and acts as if it is asserted (the modem assumes thecomputer is ready to communicate).AT&D1 If DTR is lowered, the modem returns to local command state (as if an escape sequence hasbeen typed).AT&D2 The modem hangs up, returns to local command state if DTR has been asserted (high) andthen goes low (transition).AT&D3 The modem hangs up, returns to local command state whenever DTR goes low. The modemwith this configuration must have DTR asserted before dialing or answering or an immediatehang-up may occur.AT&F Restore Factory DefaultsYour modem comes with factory default settings for all communications settings and S Registers.The &F command enables you to restore the factory default values.You must use the &W command if you wish to save the factory default values to non-volatilememory, and thus preserve these values when you switch the modem off.Command DescriptionAT&F0 Restore basic modem interface to factory defaults.AT&F1 Restore radio and modem interface to factory defaults.See AlsoAT&V View Active ProfileAT&W Store Active ProfileAT&G Exclusive Port ControlSince this is a dual port radio there are times when a program may require exclusive control of aradio.This command prevents or blocks the opposite port from being able to dial out. The oppositeport will be presented with a BUSY response whenever it dials. You should restore the port tomulti-port operation after hanging up from the remote radio or at the end of session. The G2option give a port priority so that if the opposite port has already established a connection thenthat connection will be immediately disconnected when the port with priority issues a dialcommand. Command DescriptionAT&G0 Multi Port operation.AT&G1 Exclusive port operation.AT&G2 Priority use of this port.
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 60223889, Revision 2.2AT&K Flow ControlThe &K command enables you to select the type of flow control used between your modem andthe local computer. You may want to do this to prevent possible data loss resulting from bufferoverflow.Using flow control guarantees that data buffers in your modem and computer won’t overflow.Your modem and your terminal or computer must be using the same type of flow control.Command DescriptionAT&K0 Flow control disabledAT&K3 RTS/CTS (hardware) flow control. The modem and computer use the CTS (Clearto Send) and RTS (Request to Send) signals on the RS-232 serial connection tocontrol data flow.AT&K4 XON/XOFF (software) flow control. The modem and computer use the XONand XOFF characters (DC1 and DC3) to control the flow of data.AT&V View Active ProfileThe &V command allows you to view many of the modem settings. These values correspond to Sregister and other commands that were saved into the modem’s non-volatile memory and used aspower up defaults. Command DescriptionAT&V Display All Registers (Except I registers).AT&V1 Display I registers - Information.AT&V2 Display S registers only.AT&V8 Display current links.AT&V9 Display Fault/Diagnostics Log.AT&W Store Active ProfileThe &W command allows you to save the modem settings and submit serial communicationssettings. These values will be saved into the modem’s non-volatile memory and used as power updefaults. Not all changes require the &W command, the ones that do are outlined in the ATcommand tables on page 70.Command DescriptionAT&W Save general modem configuration dataAT&W1 Submit serial port configuration
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 61223889, Revision 2.2 ‘S’ Register CommandsTo set the value of an S Register the command is in the form:ATSr=n – where r is the register and n is the value to be placed in the S Register.The value of the S Register can be read with the ATSr? Command where r is the register.ExamplesType: ATS2=64 <CR> Sets S Register 2 with a value of 64Type: ATS51? <CR> Displays S Register 51 with the Unit Address (Phone number).ATS0 Rings Before AnswerSupported for compatibility only, reports OK.ATS2 Escape CharacterRange: 0-255 Default: 43 (the + character)'S' Register 2 contains the ASCII values of the character that form the escape sequence.The default value for this register is 43. The modem will recognise three + characters (+++) asthe escape sequence.ExamplesATS2=36 - Recognises three dollar symbols ‘$$$’ characters as the escape sequenceATS2=45 - Recognises three minus ‘---‘ characters as the escape sequenceSee AlsoATS12 Escape Sequence Guard Time.ATS7 Wait for CarrierRange: 1-60 s Default: 10 sS Register 7 contains a value, in seconds, equivalent to the length of time the modem will wait fora carrier signal after dialing. If a carrier is not detected within the time specified in this register, themodem will hang up and return a NO CARRIER message.ExamplesATS7=20 Wait up to 20 seconds for a connection
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 62223889, Revision 2.2ATS12 Escape Sequence Guard TimeRange: 0-10000 ms Default: 990 msThe Escape Sequence Guard Time is the time delay required immediately before and after entering anescape sequence.For your modem to distinguish the escape sequence from ordinary data, there must be a period ofsilence both before and after the escape sequence is entered. If the Escape Sequence Guard Time isone second and the escape sequence character has been defined as ‘+’, for the modem torecognise an escape sequence you must maintain silence on the line for one second, then type‘+++’ in rapid succession, and then maintain another second’s silence.The guard time is in units of milliseconds (or 1/1000 of a second).‘S’ register 12 is also used to time the period between the escape sequence charactersas they are typed. If the period between the first and second escape characters orsecond and third escape characters being entered is greater than the value in S Register12, the modem will not recognise the escape sequence.ExamplesATS12=990 Maintain silence on the line for 0.99 seconds before and after enteringthe escape sequenceSee AlsoATS2 Escape CharacterATS21 Set Security CodeRange: 0-4294967295 Default: 0 (Disabled)Set the Network Security Code for this modem.ATS30 Inactivity Time outSupported for compatibility only, reports OK.ATS40 Packet TimerRange: 0-1000 ms Default: 0 (Disabled)Sets the Packet timer in number of milliseconds. Enter 0 to disable.
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 63223889, Revision 2.2ATS41 Number of retries for ARQRange: 0-255 Default: 50Set the number of retries ARQ Link control parameter.ATS42 Network fail timeoutRange: 100-30000 ms Default: 5000 msSet the Network fail timeout parameter.ATS43 Online requests timerRange: 0-30000 ms Default: 1000 msSet the Online request timer parameter.ATS44 Hopping Pattern SequenceRange: 0-31 Default: 0Set the Hopping Pattern Sequence parameter.ATS45 Max TX PowerRange: 0,10,20,25,30 dBm Default: 20 dBmSet the Maximum Transceiver output power parameter.ATS47 Frame TimeRange: (5),8,10,15,20,25,30,35 ms Default: 20 msSet the Frame Time parameter
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 64223889, Revision 2.2ATS48 Frame BiasRange Description0Disable1Outgoing/Upload2 Incoming/DownloadSet the Frame Bias parameter.Default: 0 (Disabled)ATS50 Network AddressRange: 0-63 Default: 32Set the Network Address parameter.ATS51 Unit Rx addressRange: 0-9999 Default: 20Set Unit Local Rx Address parameter (Phone number).ATS52 Unit Tx addressRange: 0-9999 Default: 20Set Remote Tx Address parameter (Phone number). This is only applicable if the unit is switchedto Point-to-Point mode.ATS60 Set Logging LevelRange Description0Errors Only1 Warnings and Errors2 Status Information3 General Information4 Debug InformationSet Fault/Debug logging level.Default: 3
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 65223889, Revision 2.2ATS61 Set UNIX Date/TimeRange: 0-2147483647 Default: 0Set the time in seconds since 1970ATS62 Set System/Log TimerRange: 0-86400000 Default: 0ATS70 Set Port Protocol TypeRange Description0Disabled1 Point-to-Point2Broadcast3 Hayes DialupDefault: 3ATS80 Get Local Auxiliary I/O Hex dataRange: 0x00-0xFF (0-255) Default: 0x00Get/Set the 8 bit auxiliary I/O portATS81 Get Remote Auxiliary I/O Hex dataRange: 0x00-0xFF (0-255) Default: n/aGet/Set the bit direction of the 8 bit auxiliary I/O port of the remote radio. You must already beconnected to a remote radio either by dialing and returning to local command mode or by havingthe opposite port having already established a connection to a remote by dialing or in a point-to-point mode.ATS82 Get Auxiliary I/O Direction MaskRange: 0x00-0xFF (0-255) Default: 0x00Get/Set the bit direction of the 8-bit auxiliary I/O port on the radio that you are connected to.
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 66223889, Revision 2.2ATS83 Set Auxiliary I/O Power-up DefaultRange: 0x00-0xFF (0-255) Default: 0x00Get/Set the power defaults for the 8 bit auxiliary I/O port.ATS84 Set Auxiliary I/O Sample TimerRange: 8-5000 ms Default: 500 msGet/Set the sample timer for the 8 bit auxiliary I/O Port sample timer.ATS90 Set DCD controlRange Description0 ONLINE controls DCD1 NETWORK LINK controls DCD2 CARRIER DETECT controls DCD3 Remote DSR controls DCD4 Local DSR controls DCD5 Remote CTS controls DCD6 Local CTS controls DCD7DCD Always ON8DCD Always OFF9 DCD disabledSets the DCD Control of a Serial Port.Default: 0
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 67223889, Revision 2.2ATS91 Set RTS controlRange Description0 ONLINE controls RTS1 NETWORK LINK controls RTS2 CARRIER DETECT controls RTS3 Remote DSR controls RTS4 Local DSR controls RTS5 Remote CTS controls RTS6 Local CTS controls RTS7RTS Always ON8RTS Always OFF9 RTS disabledSet the RTS Control of a Serial Port.Default: 0ATS100 Set Port baud rateRange: 300,600,1200,2400,4800,9600,19200,38400,57600,115200 Default: 19200Set the Baud Rate of the Main Serial Port.Must be used in conjunction with the AT&W1 command.ATS101 Set Port parityRange Description0 No Parity (default).1 Odd Parity2Even ParitySet the Parity of the Main Serial Port.Must be used in conjunction with the AT&W1 command.Default: 0ATS102 Set Port data bitsRange Description7 Seven Bit Data8 Eight Bit Data
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 68223889, Revision 2.2Set the Data Bits of the Main Serial Port.Must be used in conjunction with the AT&W1 command.Default: 8ATS103 Set Port stop bitsRange Description1One Stop Bit2 Two Stop BitsSet the Stop Bits of the Main Serial Port.Must be used in conjunction with the AT&W1 command.Default: 1ATS104 Set Port flow controlRange Description0 No Flow Control1 Software (XON/XOFF) Flow2 Hardware (RTS/CTS) FlowSet the Flow Control of the Main Serial Port.Must be used in conjunction with the AT&W1 command.Default 0 ‘%’ Register CommandsThe % Registers usually store string values and data entry must be terminated with a CarriageReturn <CR>. String values may contain spaces but will have leading and ending spaces removed.The % Register commands cannot be concatenated, each must be terminated with the <CR>.To set the value of an % Register the command is in the form:AT%r=nwhere r is the register and n is the value to be placed in the % Register.The value of the % Register can be read with the AT%r? command where r is the register.
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 69223889, Revision 2.2AT%20 Set Unit NameSet the Unit Name for this modem.Range: 16 alphanumeric characters.Default: BlankAT%22 Set Menu PasswordSet the Menu Password for this modem. If the password is already set then this command will notchange it. You must first remove the password via the menu. Or reset the modem to factorydefaults.Range: 12 alphanumeric characters.Default: DisabledAT%62 Set RTC Date/TimeSet the time of day in seconds since midnight.Range: 0-86400Default: 0Other CommandsThere are more AT commands available on the RFI-9256, to many to list in descriptive form. Theother commands can be found in the tables on page 70.
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 70223889, Revision 2.2Command Description L&W Command Description L&W? Help / Menu !&F Hayes only defaultsE0 Echo OFF !&F1 Set Factory defaultsE1 Echo ON !!!!&G0 Multi modem portsL0 Lowest speaker volume &G1 Exclusive use by this portL1 Low speaker volume &G2 Priority use of this portL2 Mid speaker volume &K0 No flow controlL3 Highest speaker volume &K3 Hardware RTS/CTS flow controlM0 Speaker off &K4 Software XON/XOFF flow controlM1 Speaker on when connecting &L0 Set Modem to SLAVE modeM2 Speaker on &L1 Set Modem to MASTER modeQ0 Response ON !!!!&M0 Set Ports to Point to Point !Q1 Response OFF !&M1 Set Ports to Multipoint Dialup !!!!V0 Numeric response codes !&M2 Back To Back Repeater !V1 Verbal response codes !!!!&M2 Dialup Repeater !X0 Set to basic response codes !!!!&S0 Sync Mode OffW0 Fast Response &S1 Sync Mode - Input (Follow)W1 Delayed Connect Response &S2 Sync Mode - OutputX4 Set to extended response codes !&S3 Sync Mode - RepeaterZ Initialise (power on reset) &T8 Warm Start - Reset !&A0 Auxiliary I/O Disable &T9 Cold Start - Reset !&A1 Auxiliary I/O Enable &V View current profile !&A2 Auxiliary I/O Follows Remote &V0 View all basic Hayes registerinformation !&C0 DCD always on &V1 View all ‘I’ Register profileinformation !&C1 DCD follows Online &V2 View all ‘S’ register profileinformation !&C2 DCD Follows remote DSR &V8 View Current Links !&D0 Ignore DTR !&V9 View Logging !&D1 Go local on DTR low !&W Write All Configuration !&D2 Hang-up on DTR high to low transition(dropped). !!!!&W1 Submit Serial Port Configuration. !&D3 Hang-up if DTR low !Table 7-1General CommandsTable 7-1 Notes! in L Command must be last on the command line! in &w &w must follow for changes to take effectBold DefaultsGray For Compatibility only (no function)
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 71223889, Revision 2.2Command Description Command DescriptionI Firmware ID I7 Modem IDI0 UNIMODEM PnP response I8 Get Connect TypeI1 Return CRC 32 Firmware checksum I9 Internal Temperature in DegCI2 CRC Firmware checksum Error orOK I10 Offline time in millisecondsI3 ROM Revision I11 Average RSSII4 ROM Date I12 Average NOISEI5 Manufacture Date I13 Get current port IDI6 Modem Serial Number I14 Get Link StatusTable 7-2 Information CommandsCommand DescriptionAAnswerDDial numberDT Dial number usingtoneH Hang-up modemH0 Hang up modemO Go OnlineO0 Go OnlineTable 7-3 RFI-9256 Connection CommandsCommand Description &W &W1 Command Description &W &W1S0 Rings before answer 0disables!S52 Remote Tx Address (Point toPoint)S2 ESC character !S60 Logging LevelS6 Wait for Dial Tone Timeout S61 UNIX Date/Time seconds since1970S7 Wait for Carrier Timeout !S62 System/Log Timer in millisecondsS12 ESC guard time !S70 Port Protocol TypeS21 Set Security Code S80 Local Auxiliary I/OS30 Inactivity Time out !S81 Remote Auxiliary I/OS39 Rx (In) Packetiser Timer S82 Auxiliary I/O Bit Mask (Direction)S40 Tx (out) Packet Timer 0 todisable S83 Auxiliary I/O Bit Power up defaultS41 Number of retries for ARQ S84 Auxiliary I/O Sample TimerS42 Network fail timeout S90 DCD controlS43 Online requests timer S91 RTS controlS44 Hopping Pattern Sequence S100 Port baud rate !!S45 Max TX Power S101 Port parity !!S47 Frame Time in milliseconds S102 Port data bits !!S48 Do Set Frame Bias S103 Port stop bits !!S50 Network Address S104 Port flow control !!S51 Unit Rx address Table 7-4 ‘S’ Register CommandsTable 7-3 NotesThe connection commands must appear as the last command on a line.Table 7-4 Notes! in &w1 &w1 or &w must follow for changes to take effect! in &w &w must follow for changes to take effectGray For Compatibility only (no function)
HAYES AT COMPATIBLE COMMAND SET©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 72223889, Revision 2.2Command Description S%20 Set Unit Name ×%22 Set Menu Password ×%62 Set RTC Date/Time (HH:MM:SS) ×Table 7-5 ‘%’ Register CommandsNum Verbal Description0 OK Command accepted1 CONNECT Connection established2 RING Incoming call detected3NOCARRIER Carrier not detected4 ERROR Command error7 BUSY The dialed number or extension isbusy8 NO ANSWER Extension not supported255 FAULT Protocol or other errorTable 7-6 Response CodesTable 7-5 NotesThe % register commands are single line commands and cannot beconcatenated together with other commands.
DIALUP NETWORKING©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 73223889, Revision 2.28 Dialup Networkinghe RFI-9256 provides several features to allow networking, dual port control and remoteconfiguration. The RFI-9256 has 2 independent serial ports that can be used in communication.Extension NumbersTo allow access to internal and external ports the modem provides extension numbers. These extensionnumbers work like an internal PABX where the user appends a two-digit extension number to thedestination radios dial string. The radio has several preset extension numbers as in the following table:ExtensionNumber Description00 MAIN Serial Port01 AUX Serial Port91 Virtual Hayes Connection92 Remote Menu Connection93 Remote Logger Connection99 Loop-back ConnectionTable 8-1 Extension (Port) NumbersThe MAIN and AUX port extensions allow the dialing Modem to select which port it wants to connectthrough.The Virtual Hayes connection provides an interface for automated or scripted configuration andmanagement of the radio.The Remote Menu connection provides the user with a friendly interface into a remote radio. Thisinterface has restrictions to prevent the user from accidentally changing the radio specific attributes thatcould break the connection.The Remote Logger connection dumps the currently stored event/fault log. Must be disconnected witha Hayes hang-up sequences.The Loop-back connection echoes any data entered and allows you to diagnose link quality.T
DIALUP NETWORKING©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 74223889, Revision 2.2RepeatersTo provide simple network functionality the RFI-9256 provides a several Repeater modes and uses anumber analysis system.The Back-to-Back Repeater mode configuresthe Main serial port and removes its controlfrom the Serial Configuration Menu. Toconnect the modems for repeater operation theMain ports of each modem must be fullyconnected so that all the serial lines areexchanged.This mode also has the option of synchronising the Slave and Master for increased performance, to dothis pin 10 of each Radio can be linked to pin 10 of the opposite Radio Modem.The numbering system requires the following rules:All Repeater radios must only have a two digit Rx Address (unit id).All “End Point” radios should use a full four-digit Rx address (unit id) and will require amandatory two-digit extension number.For example a destination “End Point”radio’s Rx address may be 4022 and requiredport may be the MAIN port, which is extension00, so the End Point number would be 402200(6 digits in total).To dial a connection to MAIN port (Ext 00) on radio 4022 would be:ATDT 402200To dial a remote menu (Ext 92) connection on radio 4022 would be:ATDT 402292To dial through a back-to-back repeater the repeater Rx address will be prefixed to the dial string. In theexample the user is dialing a menu extension (Ext 92) on the remote slave “End point” radio (radio 4022)using repeater 50.ATDT 50402292Figure 8-1 Back to Back Repeater Link ExchangeFigure 8-2 Single Point Connection
DIALUP NETWORKING©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 75223889, Revision 2.2This simple numbering system allows several repeaters to be concatenated and allows repeaters tobranch to other repeaters in a tree like formation.Figure 8-3 Repeater - Logical ConnectionFigure 8-4 Repeater - Physical Connection
ESTABLISHING COMMUNICATION LINKS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 76223889, Revision 2.29 Establishing Communication Links10Point to Pointhe RFI-9256’s versatility allows data communication links to be established using a variety of differentconfigurations. This, in turn, makes it possible to extend the range of RFI-9256’s and get aroundobstacles.Figure 9-1 and Figure 9-2 show the most common and straightforward link, a master communicating to aslave in a dedicated link. Both radios should be set to point to point (direct).Once selected, andthe menus have beenexited, this modeautomatically connectsthe modems andestablishes acommunication link.Communication is no longer controlled by the AT commands. In this mode the units are always connectedand the NETWORK LINK LED and ON LINE should always be ON. The CARRIER DETECT LED is usedto indicate the link quality, by the ratio of green to red (if the LED is green 100% of the time, the link isperfect). The CARRIER DETECT LED on the slave will always indicate the link quality. On the Master thelink quality is indicatedmore accurately when itis running a MarginLink Test.Point to MultipointDial connectionA point to multipoint dial connection behaves just like a telephone line modem. By using the ATDTcommand followed by the number of the slave, the slave will then be connected to the master. This allowstwo RFI-9256 radio modems to look like a direct telephone line connection. Only one slave can beconnected to the master at any one time in this mode, but the master can communicate with any slavewithin its network. For this mode to be enabled the radio’s in the network must be configured as point tomultipoint (dial) modems. 10 This section is concerned with the logical configuration and set up of networks.TFigure 9-1 Point-to-Point Local ConnectionFigure 9-2 Point-to-Point Physical Connection
ESTABLISHING COMUNICATION LINKS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 77223889, Revision 2.2Point to Point RepeaterRadios may be wired as back-to-back repeaters, to extend the range of a point-to-point system. Themodems are not configured as repeaters (inthe menu they configured in Point to PointMode) but are wired together as back-to-backrepeaters. Figure 9-3 and Figure 9-4 depict how a linkmight be set up using a repeater. The repeater may be sitting on a hilltop or other elevated structure to linkthe master to the slave. In this configuration it may be desirable to use Yagi antennas to extend the rangebetween the Repeater and either or both the Master and Slave. Figure 9-5 showsa link with tworepeaters between themaster and slave.With two repeatersthere is clearly moreflexibility in gettingaround obstacles andgreater total range is possible. Once again, it would be desirable to use external omni-directional antennaswith the repeaters, and attaching a Yagi to the master and slave would increase the range of the link. Whentwo repeaters are used there is no further degradation in the RF speed of the link, only the data latency isaffected.Figure 9-3 Point to Point System with Repeater - Logical ViewFigure 9-4 Point to Point System with Repeater - Physical ViewFigure 9-5 Point to Point System with Multiple Repeaters - Logical View
ESTABLISHING COMMUNICATION LINKS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 78223889, Revision 2.2Point to Multipoint (+Repeater)In Figure 9-6 a setup is shown where a master routinely calls a number of slaves at different times. Themaster is communicating with a transceiver designated as a repeater/slave that is connected to a remoteinstrument in the field. Since this instrument is placed in an elevated location, the transceiver may also beused as a repeater when it is not used as a slave. At any time the master may call any of the slaves, establish aconnection, and retrieve and send data. Note, point to multi-point (Dialup) is the only mode available whenthe radio is configured (using the menu) as a repeater.Figure 9-6 Point to Multipoint System with Repeaters - Logical View
AUXILIARY INPUT/OUTPUT PORT©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 79223889, Revision 2.210 Auxiliary Input/Output Porthe Auxiliary I/O Port has 8 digital I/O lines. These pins are not associated with the Main or Auxiliaryserial ports, but are used as logical bit inputs or outputs to the modem. These lines are individuallyconfigurable as inputs or outputs and their default state can be configured to preset their power-up state.The I/O ports can be controlled both remotely and locally through software or by following each otheras if directly connected by wire.Software control – works by submitting Hayes ‘S’ register commands to the local radio or dialing aremote radio’s virtual port and submitting the commands to it. The Hayes ‘S’ register commands allowyou full access to configure and control the 8 I/O lines. To software control an Auxiliary port the‘Enable/Disable Auxiliary I/O’ in the ‘Auxiliary I/O Port Menu’ must be disabled.Input/Output control – Is the configuration of each of the 8 digital I/O lines as either an inputor an output. The configuration can be done via the menu.Power-up Output Defaults – allows you to preset the state (High/Low) of an output line whenthe radio is first powered up. This prevents devices that are attached to the radios I/O from beingunintentionally enabled.Sample Rate control – Used to balance the performance of the RFI-9256 between fast updatesfrom the I/O device for one application and fast serial data throughput for another application. Fastsample rates below 15ms may degrade serial data throughput when trying to obtain serial data transferrates of faster than 50,000 bits per seconds.Auxiliary I/O Follows Remote – To allow a radio’s outputs to follow the inputs of another radiothe Aux I/O follows remote must be enabled. When two radios are connected for communication ineither a point to point mode or dialup mode, the may also exchange each others input information andthus reflect the results on their outputs. They must be configured so that the pins that are the input inone radio are the output on the other. For example, in Figure 10-8, when the modems are connected,flipping the switchconnected to pinnumber 21 in theRemote Modem willactivated the outputLED connected to pin21 in the Local modem.Similarly, Flipping theswitch connected to pin7 on the Local Modemwill change the status ofthe relay attached to pin7 on the remotemodem.TFigure 10-1 Auxiliary I/O Example
FIRMWARE COMPATIBILITY©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 80223889, Revision 2.2A Firmware CompatibilityThe version numbering schemeThe RFI-9256 products contain a firmware version string. This version information provides someinformation regarding compatibility with other firmware versions.Product Name: Identifies the modem hardware type such as RFI-419, RFI-9256 or RFI-156.Major and Minor Number: The major number generally reflects the hardware compatibility of thefirmware but may be incremented if the firmware has had a major overhaul. The minor number isincremented as new suites of functionality have been added or when changes have been made whichrender the firmware incompatible with previous versions. Combined they are the version number.Revision: The revisions reflect bug fixes or minor changes that don’t render the system incompatible.Country: Firmware with versionswith different country identifiers,are always incompatible with theirair interface. This is due to thefrequencies and hoppingsequences that they use. Eachcountry has its own spectrumallocation and laws governingradio spectrum usage.Compatibility TypesThere are several different aspects of compatibility:Hardware compatibility.Hardware compatibility is the compatibility of the firmware with the radio’s hardware, such asprocessor, transceiver and revisions of the PCB. This is usually indicated by the ‘Major version number’ orby the product name.Figure A-1 Firmware version
FIRMWARE COMPATIBILITY©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 81223889, Revision 2.2Air interface compatibility (AI)The ability for radios of different versions to still communicate. This is related to the air interfaceprotocols, RF frequencies, modulation methods and channels hopping mechanisms. Firmware with thesame Major and Minor revision numbers are always Air interface compatible. A difference in the Minornumber may indicate some Air interface incompatibility in some modes.Feature Compatibility (F)Each version of the firmware usually contains additional features such as protocols, enhancements suchas security coding and changes to the user interface. Modems with different versions of firmware may bestill compatible provided that features of the newest version modem are not utilized.Version Inter-Compatibility GuideThe following firmware versions are for the RFI-9256 Data Strike Series 3 Radio.FirmwareVersion 1.08 1.09 Rev A-D1.10 Rev A-D 1.11 Rev A 1.20 1.21 1.22 Rev A 1.23AI F AI F AI F AI F AI F AI F AI F AI F1.08 " " " 60% !!!!!!!! -- - -1.09 Rev A - D "60% " " !!!40% !40% !40% - - - -1.10 Rev A - D !!!! " " 90% 80% !80% !80% - - - -1.11 Rev A !!!40% 90% 80% " " ! 80% !80% - - - -1.20 !!!40% !80% !80% " " ! 80% - - - -1.21 !!!40% !80% !80% !80% " " -- - -1.22 Rev A ---- - - - -- - --" " 90% 90%1.23 ---- - - - -- - --90% 90% " "Table A-1 Compatibility of Firmware and VersionsTable Key"Compatible!Incompatible– Not Available% Compatibility
DIAGRAMS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 82223889, Revision 2.2B DiagramsThe diagram in Figure B-1 (next page) shows the dimensions of the mounting holes on the RFI-9256 radio.The diagram in Figure B-2 (next page) is a cable assembly diagram for the RFI-9256. The twocommunication ports are output via DB9 connectors and supply power to the radio.
DIAGRAMS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 83223889, Revision 2.2Figure B-1 Mounting details of the RFI-9256
DIAGRAMS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 84223889, Revision 2.2Figure B-2. Cable assembly details for interfacing to the RFI-9256 radio+12 VDC+12 VDC
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 85223889, Revision 2.2C Technical SpecificationsRadio SpecificationsSpecificationsRange#Up to 30 km point to pointRS-232 Data Rates 110 baud - 115.2 K baudRS-232 Interface Asynchronous, full duplexSystem Gain 135dBMinimum Receiver Decode Level -108 dBm @ 10-4 raw BER-100 dBm @ 10-6 raw BEROperating Frequency 902-928 MHz (USA)915-928 MHz (Australia)Modulation Type Spread Spectrum, GFSKSpreading Code Frequency HoppingHop Patterns 32 (user selectable)Output Power 1mW - 1 Watt (+30 dBm)Error Detection 32 Bit CRC with packet retransmit (ARQ)Antenna Special BNC to RFI supplied antennaPower Requirements 9.0 to 28.0 VDC (negative ground)Power Consumption 350 mA Transmit200 mA Receive150 mA Average (normal data loading)Connector DB25 male (power and data combined)Unit Address (Network ID) User programmableOperating Modes Point-to-PointPoint to Multipoint Dial (Hayes)Back to Back RepeaterProtocol RouterCustomOperating Environment -10°C - +60°CFCC IdentifierACA Identifier P5M9256TRXN161Table C-1 RFI-9256 Radio Specifications # The RANGE is dependent upon the antenna used and the environment, a typical range calculator is available to download from theRFI WEB site (http://www.rfinnovations.com.au/).
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 86223889, Revision 2.2Pin AssignmentsPIN NO. & FUNCTION PIN NO. & FUNCTION1 +12V input 14 +12V input2 Transmit Data Out (TXD)main port 15 RTS Out (main port)3 Received Data In (RXD)main port 16 CTS In (main port)4 Transmit Data Out (TXD)Aux port 17 RS232 control Out (DCD)!5 Received Data In (RXD)Aux port 18 RS232 control In (DSR)!6 I/O control 7$19 I/O control 6$7 I/O control 5$20 I/O control 4$8 I/O control 0$21 I/O control 1$9 I/O control 2$22 I/O control 3$10 Analog input 2 (Tx Sync)$23 Analog input 111 Analog input 0$24 I2C Expansion (data)"12 I2C Expansion (clock)"25 GND13 GND Table C-2 Modem RS-232 Interface Connector FunctionsPower supply NotesThe power supplies used to power Radio Modems should have sufficient current rating and ripplerejection, typically <500mVRMS of power supply noise can be tolerated. The Modems contain a built inthermal fuse that will open the circuit in the event of any over current conditions, over temperature orreverse polarity. Power supplies used should be capable of at least 1amp continuous current. ! RS232 control line functions are dependant upon device program options and can be used as flow control on the Aux Port.$ I/O controls and Analogs are 0-5V high impedance (4K7 Ohms) Consult RFI." Consult RFI for expansion options.Figure C-1. Modem DB-25 (Male) Chassis Connector,Outside View
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 87223889, Revision 2.2EIA Standard RS-232-C Pin AssignmentsRS-232 DB-25 Pin AssignmentsPIN Name DTEDCEFunction1 FG Frame Ground2Tx Transmitted Data3 Rx Received Data4 RTS Request To Send5CTS Clear To Send6 DSR Data Set Ready7 SG Signal Ground8 DCD Data Carrier Detect9Positive DC Test Voltage10 Negative DC Test Voltage11 OM Equalizer Mode12 (S)DCD SEC Data Carrier Detect13 (S)CTS SEC Clear To Send14 (S)Tx SEC Transmitted DataNS New Sync15 TC Transmitted Clock16 (S)Rx SEC Received DataDCT Divided Clock Transmitter17 RC Receiver Clock18 DCR Divided Clock Receiver19 (S)RTS SEC Request To Send20 DTR Data Terminal Ready21 SQ Signal Quality Detect22 RI Ring Indicator23 Data Rate SelectorData Rate Selector24 (TC) EXT. Transmitter Clock25 BusyTable C-3 DB-25 RS-232 Pin AssignmentsRS-232 DB-9 Pin AssignmentsPIN Name DTEDCEFunction1DTR Data Terminal Ready2 Rx Received Data3Tx Transmitted Data4 DCD Data Carrier Detect5 SG Signal Ground6 DSR Data Set Ready7CTS Clear To Send8 RTS Request To Send9N/ATable C-4 DB-9 RS-232 Pin Assignments
FACTORY DEFAULTS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 88223889, Revision 2.2D Factory DefaultsThis section describes the factory defaults for the menu options of the radio.Radio ConfigurationUnit is a SlaveNetwork Address = 32Rx Address = 20Unit is in point to multipoint dialup modeSpecial Controls MenuSync mode = OFFLink Control MenuARQ retries = 50Network fail timer = 5000msOnline request time = 1000msBack off Retry is disabledRadio Personality MenuHopping Pattern = 0Power setting = 20 dBmRSSI trigger level = -110Frame Time = 20 millisecondsDirectional Bias is disabled.Protocol Port SelectionHayes Dialup for both portsSerial Port Configuration Menu (settings are the same for both ports)(settings are the same for both ports)(settings are the same for both ports)(settings are the same for both ports)19200 BaudNo Parity8 Data bits1 Stop bitNo Flow ControlPacket Timer Disabled
FACTORY DEFAULTS©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 89223889, Revision 2.2Modem and I/O Configuration MenuHAYES COMMAND CONTROL MENU (settings are the same for both ports)Hang-up on DTR dropped.Echo is ONResponse is ONEscape character = +Escape guard time = 1000 (ms)Connect timeout = 10000(ms)DCD CONTROLSDCD follows onlineRTD CONTROLSRTS disabled.AUXILIARY I/OAuxiliary I/O enabled.Radio Personality MenuUnit name is blank (unit has no name)Menu Password is disabledSecurity code is disabledMenu timeout is 15 minutes.Diagnostics MenuLog level = General Information
TROUBLESHOOTING©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 90223889, Revision 2.2E Trouble Shooting%“I have two transceivers, one configured as a master and the other as a slave. When they are plugged in, the POWERLED indicates they are receiving power, and yet they will not LINK. Why not?”There are many reasons why two modems will not LINK. First of all, make sure that the two modemshave the same ‘Network Address’, ‘Hopping Pattern’, ‘Frame Time’ and finally, the same protocols (allthese settings can be changed in the menu interface). If any one of these is different you will not get aLINK between the modems.Point-to-Multipoint Dialup Connection: If you are using the Hayes ™ AT commands to connect toother modems make sure you include the extension number in the dialing command. For example, ifyou want to connect to the Slave modem with ‘Local Rx Address’ 4022 from the Master modem with‘Local Rx Address’ 20, you would execute the following command:“ATDT402200” - where ‘ATDT’ is the Hayes ™ command ‘4022’ is the slaves address and‘00’ is the extension number.This will connect the Master modem with the Main Port of the Slave modem.Point-to-Point Connection: If you have a Point-to-Point Connection then you have to make sure thatthe ‘Remote Tx Address’ corresponds to the ‘Local Rx Address’ of the other modem. For example, ifthe Master is configured with ‘Local Rx Address’ of 20 and the Slave with its ‘Local Rx Address’ equalto 4022, the Master would have its ‘Remote Tx Address’ set to 4022 and the Slave’s ‘Remote TxAddress’ set to 20. In order to set the ‘Remote Tx Address’ you have to select ‘Point-to-PointConnection’ in the ‘Radio Configuration Menu.’Final Notes: If all else fails, you can restore the modems to their factory defaults by selecting theoption in the ‘Radio Configuration Menu’ and set up the connection by following the steps in Installationat the beginning of this manual. If you require a specialized connection please contact your supplier forfurther assistance.%“I am able to link to a remote unit within line of sight when the Transceiver I have is outside. However, as soon as Iwalk inside with it I lose the link, even if I place the Transceiver by the window which faces the remote unit.”Many modern buildings use energy efficient glass that wreaks havoc on RF signals. This glass contains ametal film that is very effective in blocking all radio waves. If your situation is as described above thepreferable solution is to install an antenna outdoors.%“My transceivers have established a solid connection as indicated by the LEDs, yet the application I am running is nottransmitting and/or receiving data correctly.”A quick acid test in a situation like this is to try to get the application up and running using an RS-232null modem cable before deploying the RFI-9256 in the field. The RFI-9256 essentially functions as anull modem cable. If the application will not work with a hard wire connection then it will not workwith the RFI-9256, and the problem lies within the application or other hardware (such as the computerserial ports or flow control).
TROUBLE SHOOTING©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 91223889, Revision 2.2%“I have used the RFI-9256 with several different PC’s and portables using very similar settings, yet I have noticedthat the Transceivers range is reduced considerably when I am using certain computers. Why is this?”It is possible that certain laptop and desktop computers, which you are using, emit interference that isdetrimental to the RFI-9256’s operation. Try moving the RFI-9256 as far away from the computer asthe cable connected to it will allow, this should reduce the impact of interference from the computer.%“I have the RFI-9256 set up between two computers and have been unsuccessful in my attempts to establish a linkusing LapLink.”There is a function LapLink supports that allows it to automatically change the baud rates duringconnections. As the RFI-9256 does not support automatic baud rate changing, the effects of LapLinkchanging its baud rate will cause the connection to fail. If you are uncertain whether it is LapLink or theradio modem itself, try establishing a link using a terminal package such as RFI’s InTerm. If the linksucceeds, then it is LapLink causing the problem and unfortunately there is no documented solution forit.%“I have tried to access the menu via the RFI-9256 front panel (Mode 6 – config) but I get no menu on my terminalprogram.”To resolve this problem, it is best you double-check the settings of firstly the cable connection, then theterminal program you are using (e.g. RFI’s InTerm) and finally the settings of the radio modem itself.Step 1: Make sure you have the Auxiliary port of the modem connected to your PC. The menu systemis designed to pop on the Auxiliary port NOT the Main port.Step 2: As a rule of thumb, accessing the menu via the Front Panel Modes ALWAYS sets the Auxiliaryport’s baud rate to 19200bps. Make sure you have the following terminal settings:Communications Settings (RS-232 Com Port)Baud Rate: 19200Data Bits: 8Parity: NoneStop Bits: 1Flow Control: No FlowTerminal SettingsEmulator Mode: None or Standard TTYLocal Echo: offLF to CR on incoming: offLF to CR on outgoing: offStep 3: There is no reason why ANY settings of the radio modem should affect the ability to access theMenu via the Front Panel Modes. If you still cannot access the menu, check to see whether the cableyou are using is faulty or not. Finally, if you still cannot access the menu please call your supplier.
TROUBLESHOOTING©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 92223889, Revision 2.2%“My Terminal or communications program is losing characters.”First check that the flow control settings on the terminal or communications program match thesettings on the radio. If they both have hardware handshaking enabled then check if you have an S3based video card. This card often conflicts with your serial ports. To solve this you have to disable (orminimize) the ‘video acceleration’ feature of the card. Please contact your local PC distributor forfurther assistance. %“The data I receive on my terminal package is corrupted, i.e. I receive rows of ‘weird’ characters and receive only certaincharacters.”This is a symptom of miss-matched baud rates. If you do not have the same baud rate settings in yourterminal package as the settings of your modem, the PC’s communication port will not interpret thedata correctly and send it to the terminal package corrupted.The problem could be at the opposite end of the radio link. For example, if there is a device attached toa remote modem, and the baud rate of the device and modem do not match, you might experience asimilar problem.
GLOSSARY©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 93223889, Revision 2.2FFFF GlossaryAAlphanumericRoman Letters (alphabetic) and Arabic numbers (numeric).ARQAutomatic Request Repeat - A form of error correction that uses retries to correct bad packets of data.ARQ RetriesThe number of times the radio modem will try to send a packet of lost information before it gives up.ASCIIAmerican Standard Code for Information Interchange. Pronounced as-kee. A code by which alphanumeric, punctuation andcontrol characters, commonly found on computer keyboards, are each assigned a unique value between 0-127 (decimal).AsynchronousA data transmission in which the time between characters may vary. Characters are delimited by start and stop bits.Attention Commands (AT Commands)A group of commands created by HayesTM that are recognised by the modem and that begin with AT (or at).AttenuationThe loss of power through transmission equipment, lines or other communication devices.Auto answerA modem capability that allows it to automatically pick-up.Auxiliary Port (Aux Port)Port connected to 3-wire modem cable. Cable contains Rx, Tx and ground wires. Only supports software flow control (nohardware flow control).BBandwidthThe range of signal frequencies that are accepted or passed by a circuit or network.Base FrequencyThe frequency band occupied by a signal in its original or un-modulated form.BaudThis term represents the number of discrete signaling events per second. If each signal element has more than one bitassociated with it then this will not be the same as BPS. Compare with bit rate. Also called Baud Rate.BinaryA number system with a base of two, using the digits 0 and 1. Commonly used in computers since the values 0 and 1 caneasily be represented as OFF and ON in electrical circuits.Bit The smallest piece of information in a binary number system. The word stands for Binary digit.Bit rateThe speed at which bits are transmitted, usually expressed as bits per second (BPS).BlockGroup of characters treated as a unit for the purpose of data transmission.BPSAn acronym for Bits Per Second. Transmission rate of binary numbers (bits).
GLOSSARY©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 94223889, Revision 2.2BridgeJoins dissimilar networks and converts protocols such that data can be passed between them. For example, a bridge may allowdata to be passed from a TCP/IP network to a ISDN network.BufferTemporary storage area used to compensate for a difference in the rate of data flow into and out of a device.ByteA group of 8-bits that specifies a single character. See also Bit.CCarrier signalThe base frequency that is modulated by another signal containing information to be transmitted.Carriage Return (CR)The enter key on a keyboard. Causes the curser to move to the beginning of the next line.Carrier Detect (CD)An RS-232 interface signal from the modem to a terminal or personal computer indicating that the modem is receiving asignal from a remote modem. See also DCD.CharacterA letter, number or other symbol contained in a message or used in a control function. See Byte and ASCII.Clear to Send (CTS)Control signal sent by the DCE to indicate that the DTE may begin a transmission.Communications LinkWhen communication is established between modems, information can be passed between them. Signified on the RFI-9256by both modems having Network Link, Carrier Detect and On-Line LEDs activated and the receive and transmit LEDs flash asdata is sent.Competing SystemA Leased Line. For example X25, QPSX, ISPN.Connection CommandsCommands that enable information to be passed between two modems, after a communications link has been established.ConnectorA physical devices, such as a plug, socket or jack, used to connect one hardware component of a system to another. Aconnector may also be called a port.ConsolePart of a computer system, usually a video display terminal, used by the operator to communicate with the computer. Seeterminal.ContentionCondition arising when two or more devices try to transmit at the same time using the same channel.Control CharacterAny character assigned as ASCII numeric code less than the SPACE character. These characters are used to initiate a controlfunction on the receiving device. Also a symbol you can create by pressing one of your computer's keys while holding downthe Control key. These symbols are not usually printed, and are generally used to control screen formatting and cursorpositioning.Clear to Sent (CTS)This signal is generated by a modem in response to RTS to indicate that a communications channel has been established andthat data can be sent.Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC)An error-detection technique in which a data validation value is mathematically derived from a block of data and transmittedat the end of the block. The receiving end re-computes the value and if it matches the value sent, the data is assumed to bevalid (error-free). If not, the receiver notifies the transmitter that an error has occurred and the block is retransmitted.
GLOSSARY©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 95223889, Revision 2.2DDataAny type of information, such as numbers, letters and symbols, that can be processed by a computer.Data BitsThe actual characters being transmitted between two computers when asynchronous communications is being used. Usually 7or 8 data bits are used. A normal byte has 8 bits. 7 data bits are used for ASCII/alphanumeric data.Data Communications Equipment (DCE)Equipment that is used to access a communications network. The DCE provides all the functions required to establish,maintain and terminate a connection, and provides the signal conversion required for communications between the DataTerminal Equipment (DTE) and the telephone network. With RS-232 connections, the modem is generally the DCE devicewhile the computer or terminal connected to a modem is generally the DTE device. See also Data Terminal Equipment.Data CompressionAn encoding technique that provides for the transmission of fewer data bits without the loss of information. The receivingend expands the data received to its original form. For example, a ZIP file/drive, ARJ file formats, MPEG/JPEG and GIFformats.Data LatencyTime delay between input stream and output data.Data Set Ready (DSR)An RS-232 control signal used to indicate the readiness of the DCE (Usually a modem) to accept data from the DTE (usuallya terminal or computer).Data Terminal Equipment (DTE)The equipment, which provides the data source and/or receiving end of a data transmission link. The DTE may be a personalcomputer, a printer, and a front-end processor to a large mainframe computer or any other device that can transmit or receivedata. With RS-232 connections the designation of DTE or DCE determines which device is responsible for generating certaincontrol signals. See also Data Communications Equipment.Data Terminal Ready (DTR)An RS-232 control signal used to indicate the readiness of the DTE for data transmission.DB9A port connection used in RS-232 convention with 9 pins.DB25A port connection used in RS-232 convention with 25 pins.DCDAn acronym for Data Carrier Detect. See also Carrier Detect.Dedicated LineA communications line, which is not dialed. Also known as a leased or private line.Decibel (dB/dBm)Unit of measure indicating the logarithmic ratio of output signal power to input signal power. dB is relative to Watts whiledBm is scaled so that is relative to milliWatts.DefaultA value, action or setting that is automatically used by a computer system when no other explicit information has been given.DemodulateTo recover the information being transmitted by a modulated signal. For example, a conventional radio receiver demodulatesan incoming broadcast signal to convert it into sound emitted by a speaker. See also Modulate and Modem.Dial ToneA call progress signal returned by a telephone-switching machine to indicate that it is ready to accept a telephone number.ATDT (HayesTM commands) supported for compatibility.Dial-upEstablishing a temporary connection to a remote system or computer.
GLOSSARY©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 96223889, Revision 2.2Digital SignalA signal composed of discrete signal levels as opposed to the continuous signal levels of an analog signal.DIP SwitchAcronym for Dual In-line Package. Options chosen by pushing a switch to one of two positions.DistortionUndesired change in a signal's original waveform resulting from the characteristics of the transmission circuits or otherexternal influences.DownloadingRefers to the transferring of software from a remote system to your computer.DTEAn acronym of Data Terminal Equipment. See Data Terminal Equipment.Dual Port ControlThe ability of the RFI-9256 modems to communicate out of both the Aux and Main ports to either the Aux or Main port ofthe receiving modem.Dumb TerminalTerminals that do not contain an intelligent microprocessor and usually send data one character at a time.Duplex TransmissionIndependent, simultaneous, two-way transmission.EEchoThe re-transmission of characters received by either the modem or remote system back to the DTE.EIRPEffective Isotropic Radiated Power.End Point RadioRadios that are connected to the data device, such as SCADA/Acquisition/PC. As opposed to a repeater.Escape Guard TimeThe amount of time for which no activity is allowed on the data line before and after the sequence is entered, otherwise theescape sequence will be ignored.Even ParityEven parity refers to the addition of a 0 value or 1 value bit to the data bits which form a character to cause an even numberof 1 value data bits to be sent. See also Parity.Extension Numbe rsThe numbers that must be placed after the destination radio’s number, to access the required port (internal or external). Onlyavailable in Point to Multipoint mode.FFault LogContains a list of modem faults since the log was last cleared.FirmwareComputer program stored permanently in Flash Memory.Flash MemoryNon-volatile memory for storing programs and configuration data.Flow ControlControls the flow according to the readiness of the associated terminals to receive and transmit data. May be controlled withhardware or software.
GLOSSARY©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 97223889, Revision 2.2FrameSee Block.Frame TimeSpecifies the maximum length of each packet frame (larger the time, the more information that can be contained within theframe).Forward Error Correction (FEC)Technique of transmitting additional information with the original data so that if small errors are detected the correctinformation can be recreated by the receiving end without requiring a retransmission.Full DuplexData transmission, which allows data to flow in two directions at the same time.GGatewayAn electronic connection that joins similar networks together, for example IP to IP. Generally transparent to the user.HHalf DuplexData transmission in which data may flow in either direction at one time, but not both directions simultaneously.Transmission direction is alternatively switched to allow two-way flow of data.HandshakeA predetermined interchange of signals between two devices to establish conditions for a transfer of data.Hang-upTermination of the Communications Link. As with a normal phone call, the phone must be hung-up so that you can call andreceive other calls.Hang-up on DTROnly available with the Main Port. If activated, will terminate the Communication Link when the Data Terminal Ready pin islow.HardwareThe electronic or electro-mechanical devices in a computer system as opposed to the programs or software.Hardware HandshakingThe use of special RS-232 signals to halt or commence the flow of data between two computers or terminals, betweencomputers and modems or between facsimile machines. See also Software Handshaking, RTS and CTS.HayesTMCompany that designed the AT commands.Hertz (Hz)Unit of frequency, one cycle per second.Hopping PatternPattern to which the modem jumps through the frequency spectrum as it transmits and receives information. There are 32hopping patterns available, all modems that are to communicate with each other must have the same hopping pattern.Host ComputerA computer that manages information for many terminals. A host computer may be mainframe, minicomputer or amicrocomputer.IInputInformation transferred into a computer from some external source, such as the keyboard, a disk drive, a modem or ascanner. Also, the act or process of transferring such information.
GLOSSARY©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 98223889, Revision 2.2Input/Output DeviceA device that transfers information into or out of a computer.InterfaceA physical point of interconnection between two devices where electrical signal levels, timing, handshaking and pin numbersare defined. The devices, rules or convention by which one component of a system communicates with another.InterferenceUndesirable disturbances or distortions in a data transmission signal.I/O Input/Output. The transfer of information into and out of a computer.KKermitKermit is a file transfer protocol developed for operating systems that could not support the XModem protocol.LLight Emitting Diode (LED)A diode that glows when a current flows through it. Often used as an indicator light.LinkA circuit or transmission path, including all equipment, between a sender and a receiver.Local EchoA method of communication in which your modem or software displays data locally on your screen, without relying on thehost computer to echo the characters back.Local Command StateAlso called Terminal Command State. When a computer is communicating with a local modem. The local mode, assumes allcommands are for it and acts on the AT commands. As opposed to being connected to a remote modem (see On-Line State).Local Rx Address4 digit phone number/address of the modem that you are dialing. Each modem, within a point to multipoint network, musthave a unique Rx address, otherwise more than one modem will be dialed. Used when dialing a remote modem. In point topoint communication, there is no dialing so it does not matter if both modems have the same Rx Address.Log List of information concerning the modem. See Fault Log, Physical Layer Log, and Serial Layer Log.Loop-backDirecting signals back toward the source at some point in the communications path. Used in testing RFI-9256.MMain PortPort connected to full RS-232 (7 wire) cable. Cable contains Tx, Rx, DCD, RTS, CTS, DTR, and ground. Allows hardwareflow control (hardware handshaking).MasterActive Modem that synchronises the slave modems to enable the transmission of information. Can communicate with allslaves in its network.ModemModulator/Demodulator. A device to convert data from a computer or terminal into a form suitable for transmission acrossa telephone system.Modem Returns Response CodesSuppresses (when activated) the Response Codes, so that they are not displayed on the terminal.
GLOSSARY©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 99223889, Revision 2.2Modem EliminatorA usually passive device, which takes the place of a modem between a local terminal, which requires a modem, and acomputer. Also called Null Modem.ModulateTo modify or alter a signal so as to transmit information. For example, conventional broadcast radio transmits sound bymodulating the amplitude or the frequency of a carrier signal. See also Demodulate and Modem.MultiplexTo interleave or simultaneously transmit two or more messages on a single channel.NNAKNegative Acknowledgment. This control character indicates that the last block transmitted was in error and that the receiver isexpecting a re-transmission.Network AddressIf the modem is a master, then this is the network identification number. Slaves are synchronised by the master that has thesame network address. A radio will ignore messages originating from radios with differing addresses. Must be the same for allradios within a network.Network Fail TimeoutThe length of time that the system will wait after a signal is lost before trying to re-synchronise.Network Identification NumberSee Network AddressNodeA point of interconnection on a circuit.NoiseRandom electrical signals introduced by components of the circuit or natural disturbances that can produce errors intransmission.Non-Volatile MemoryStores data/programs/configurations without the need for a battery backup. Will not be erased if there is a power failure.Nearly permanent.Null ModemSee Modem Eliminator.OOdd ParityOdd parity refers to the appending of a 0 or 1 value bit to the data bits of a character to ensure that an odd number of 1-valuebits are sent. See also Even Parity and Parity.Off-lineDescribes the state of a connection as not in session or not currently connected. There is no communications link betweenthe modems, system has not dialed.On-lineDescribes the state of a connection as in session and currently connected. The system has dialed and a communications linkhas been formed allowing the transfer of data. On-line LED on front of RFI-9256 is activated.On-line Requests TimerControls the time between slave integrity checks by the master.On-line StateWhen a Communications Link is established and dialogue is between your computer and a remote system. The local modemassumes that all information from your computer is to be sent on to the remote modem. All AT commands are ignored bythe local modem but are acted upon by the remote modem. See also Local Command State.
GLOSSARY©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 100223889, Revision 2.2On-line TimeThe amount of time spent on-line with an information service.PPABXPrivate Automatic Branch Exchange. An automatic switchboard for handling large concentrations of telephones (extensions).PacketGroup of bits including data and control elements that are transmitted as a whole.Packet Switched NetworkSystem where messages are transmitted in packets, each individually addressed and routed through the network.Packet TimerSends the packet of information when no information has been received for the specified length of time.ParityA simple method of error checking by which the number of data bits received are added together to ensure that the correctnumber have been received.PasswordPassword protection for the menu to prohibit unauthorised menu access and the ability to alter the radio’s settings. Consistsof 12 to 18 Alphanumeric characters.Peripheral (Peripheral Device)A device, such as a video monitor, disk drive, printer or modem, used in conjunction with a computer. Often (but notnecessarily) physically separate from the computer and connected to it by wires, cables or some other form of interface.Physical Layer LoggingShows the modem statistics relating to the quantity of data throughput.Point-to-Multipoint CommunicationOne radio (the master) communicates with more that one slave, while each slave can only talk to the master. As opposed toPoint-to-Point Communication.Point-to-Point CommunicationA connection between two points only. Communications established automatically with the RFI-9256 and is not controlledby the AT commands. As opposed to Point to Multipoint Communication..PortThe point of connection, usually a physical connector, between a computer and a peripheral device, another computer or anetwork.Propagation DelayThe time required for a signal to travel from one end of a circuit to another.ProtocolA set of conventions controlling the timing and format of data communications between two pieces of communicationsequipment.Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN)Telephone system providing circuit switching to many customers.PulseAn abrupt and relatively short change in voltage, either positive or negative resulting in the conveyance of data in a circuit.RRAMRandom Access Memory. RFI-9256 has 64k on board. See technical specifications page.Received Line Signal DetectorSee Carrier Detect.
GLOSSARY©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 101223889, Revision 2.2Redundancy CheckTechnique of error detection involving the transmission of additional data related to the message so that the receiving devicecan determine if the data transmitted is valid (error-free).% RegistersRegisters inside the modem that usually contain string values. Can be read and altered on a remote modem using aCommunications Link. Examples include Unit Name, Security Code and Local Address.Remote ConfigurationThe accessing of information from a remote radio and the ability to change the remote radio’s attributes via aCommunications Link.Remote SystemAnother PC or network that can be communicated with via modem.RepeaterRadio that receives and repeats the signal in a communications path, to extend the range between the End Point Radios. Theydo not act on the information, only pass it on.Request to Send (RTS)Control signal by the DTE to inform the DCE that it is ready to transmit data. When used for flow control between the DTEand the modem, this signal indicates to the modem that the DTE is ready to accept data. Used mainly in half-duplexcommunications.Response CodesAlso called Result Codes. Screen messages that indicate what the modem is doing. For example, OK will appear when acommand has been executed successfully.RF ChannelsSteps or intervals of frequency divisions in the 915-928MHz spectrum. 51 channels available.Routing TableA table that is used by the radios to convert packet addresses into radio addresses.RouterGuides data through a network by the address of the data.RS-232CFrequently shortened to RS-232. A standard, which defines the physical and electrical interface between DataCommunications Equipment and Data Terminal Equipment. The most commonly used interface between modems andcomputers. Also known as ITU-T V24.RSSI Trigger LevelSignal threshold/trigger level in dBm. This is the level at which the radio decides what it is hearing is no longer noise.RTS/CTSControl characters for hardware handshaking.RTUAcronym for Remote Terminal Unit. Device attached to remote radio.Rx Abbreviation for Receive.SSecurity Code4 digits, same as a PIN number. The code is known only to the user and protects the user from interference from othernetworks using RFI-9256 modems.Serial DataData transmission in which each bit of information is sent sequentially through a single data path.Serial LoggingShows information regarding the performance of both serial ports.
GLOSSARY©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 102223889, Revision 2.2Serial PortPort that receives/transmits serial data. The RFI-9256 has two serial ports, the Main and Auxiliary (Aux) ports.SimplexData communications in one direction only.SlavePassive modem. Requires a Master to synchronise timing to enable successful transmission. May initiate communication, butcan only communicate with the Master.SoftwareComputer program or set of computer programs held in storage, and loaded into RAM for execution.Software HandshakingA method of controlling the flow of data between two computers or terminals. Special control characters are sent from oneterminal to the other in order to halt or recommence the flow of data. See also Hardware Handshaking.Spread Spectrum ModemModem that operates within a frequency band (as opposed to operating at a single, fixed frequency), jumping through thefrequencies according to the Hopping Pattern.Spread Spectrum StandardStandard that specifies the way in which the frequencies of the spread spectrum are to be utilised.S RegistersRegisters, inside the modem, which contains whole number values. These can be read and obtained from remote modems byusing a communications link. Examples include Escape Sequence Guard Time, Number of Retries for ARQ.Start BitWhen a character is transmitted asynchronously to another computer, a start bit always precedes the actual data. Seven oreight data bits, an optional parity bit and a stop bit will follow.Stop BitThe last bit or element transmitted in asynchronous transmission of a character to return the circuit to an idle state. One ortwo stop bits are sent at the end of each character of data.SynchronousA data transmission in which the time between characters is fixed by synchronising the transmitting and receivingcommunications equipment. The clock signal is typically derived from the data stream in order to maintain synchronisation.TTelecommunicationsThe transmission of information across long distances, such as over telephone lines.TerminalAn input/output device consisting of a typewriter-like keyboard and a display device, used for communicating with a largecomputer. Any device capable of sending and/or receiving data over a communications channel.Terminal EmulationRefers to the type of ASCII terminal your software will imitate (the control characters used to perform certain screen andcursor movement tasks vary from one terminal to another).Terminal ProgramAlso called Terminal Software, terminal package, and emulator. Computer program that deciphers the information receivedfrom the modem and send information to the modem as required.Test Link MarginDisplays the average signal and noise the modem is measuring.TextThe message portion of a data block in synchronous data transmissions.Transmit PowerPower of signal emanating from the antenna. This should be the minimum required to maintain a solid data link.
GLOSSARY©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 103223889, Revision 2.2Turnaround TimeThe time required to, reverse the direction of transmission when operating in half duplex mode.Tx Abbreviation for Transmit.UUNIMODEM PnP ResponseThe unit response to a PnP (Plug and Play) query.Unit NameUser defined name for radio. May be used to indicate radio position or other identifying feature.UploadRefers to sending files or text from the user’s computer to another user.VVirtual Hayes ConnectionInterface for communication with and management of a remote radio.WWait Time for ConnectTime the radio will wait for valid connection, before indicating communication unsuccessful.Whip AntennaSmall antenna (usually approx. 15 cm)XXModemA communications protocol developed in the late '70s by Ward Christensen to perform error checking on data being sentbetween two computers. See Kermit.XON/XOFFSpecial control characters used to control the flow of data between your computer and a remote system. See SoftwareHandshaking.YYagi AntennaDirectional antenna.ZZModemDesigned to rectify limitations of previous models as well as providing support for hi speed, packet and networkcommunication environments.
GLOSSARY©©©© RF Innovations Pty Ltd, 1998 Page: 104223889, Revision 2.2
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